(above) Woodmen of the World building where the fireworks took place.
Photo: Kenilworth Historical Society.
WHAT, WHERE, AND WHEN IN OLD KENILWORTH – Fireworks at Borough Hall
On January 2, 1922 fireworks erupted at the old borough hall – then the Woodmen of the World building. Incumbent Mayor Oswald Nitschke, a Democrat, initially lost the 1921 election by one vote, 197-196, against Republican Councilman Dennis O’Brien. A court-ordered recount resulted in a 196-196 tie.
(above) Mayor Nitschke had last laugh
Photo: Historic Signs, Inc.
Nitschke, a real scrapper, was resolute that a successor had not been chosen and that he had the right carry over as mayor. The borough attorney advised the councilmen that they could choose the mayor as there was a vacancy since no one had been elected.
When the governing body met on January 2, to take oaths of office, Nitschke presided. The councilmen elected O’Brien as mayor. Nitschke exclaimed that he would only leave his seat as mayor if “thrown out.” He soon would get his wish. Pandemonium took over the meeting. Borough clerk Andrew Ogden blurted out, “How do you expect me to serve two masters.” O’Brien and council members eventually had Patrolman Alfred Vardalis remove Nitschke. A newspaper reported that he was dragged from his chair. The audience was in uncontrolled laughter throughout the spectacle.
But Nitschke would have the last laugh. He went back to court. The court overruled the council’s choice of O’Brien allowing Nitschke to serve until November at which time an election was held for the remaining year of the two-year term of mayor. Nitschke did not run.
(above) Alfred Vardalis dragged Nitschke from his chair.
Photo: Vardalis family
But O’Brien wanted to. However, he lost the 1922 Republican primary to William Hoiles, a former mayor. And what happened to officer Vardalis? He was named chief of police by the council at that meeting after removing Nitschke. Nitschke wasn’t done laughing. He laughed twice more, being elected mayor in 1927 and 1931.
Research provided by Walter E. Boright, Ed. D., historian, and Historic Signs, Inc. with Persons with inquiries about this or other aspects of Kenilworth history may contact Dr. Boright at drbori@aol.com or 908-256-5200.
