To tell this story I must let you know
about my Uncle Pat. He was born in Ireland during the 1800's had
no formal education, immigrated to the United States with his family.
His Father despite "No Irish Need Apply" signs was able
to obtain a job. At an early age Pat went to work to help support
the family. Bouncing around the country he worked at many venues,
including construction of the dam on the Wanaque Reservoir. He could
neither read nor write English but he soon learned how to make money.
I accompanied him to the bank one time, his withdrawals were authenticated
with a finger print of his thumb. It was the first and last time
that I ever saw a $1000 dollar bill.
In time he was able to buy a house on Mulberry Street adjacent
to Fire Engine Company Number One at the corner of Mulberry and
Lafayette Streets, and ran a rooming house there.
He also became an expert gemologist on precious stones, diamonds,
and rubies.
He became well acquainted with the residents of the neighborhood
Chinese enclave. One of his “Jobs” was to play chicky
for the gamblers in the area. He would station himself on the street
and when the Vice Squad appeared he quickly informed the players
of their approach. They, the gambles, quickly dispersed and all
the Vice Squad found was several old men drinking tea and smoking
cigarettes.
He was in all types of schemes to make money, in that mode he purchased
shares in the Newark Bears and presented 25 of them to me.
That how I became a Newark Bears Shareholder, in 1931 when Jacob
Rupert bought the Bears, I was required to redeem them and received
$27.50 for them. A munificent sum at the time.
Part of the Newark Bears History.
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