Emma Hyland, the widow of John T. Hyland, became involved in politics following the granting of women’s voting rights, remaining an active figure in Camden politics and civic affairs throughout her life. John T. Hyland, an attorney admitted to the bar in 1895, pursued a career with the United States postal service and eventually lost his life while serving in France with the United States Army during World War I.
In 1934, Emma Hyland, active in Democratic political circles, was appointed Postmaster of the City of Camden by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, succeeding Charles H. Ellis. She continued in this role until her retirement in April 1945. During the mid-1930s, she co-led the Democratic Party in Camden alongside Harry L. Maloney, successfully withstanding challenges to their leadership. Despite her political influence, illness forced her retirement in February 1945.
Emma Hyland initially resided at 409 Chambers Avenue shortly after World War I, later moving to 306 Cooper Street by 1936. She passed away on October 19, 1945, leaving behind her son Theodore J. Hyland and six grandchildren.
Among Emma Hyland’s grandchildren, William F. Hyland, held a deep affection for his grandmother and followed her path within the Democratic Party in Camden County. William served as party chair at the state level and was elected to the New Jersey State Assembly in 1953. In 1958, he achieved the distinction of being elected the first Democratic Speaker of the Assembly in 22 years. William F. Hyland continued his public service, serving as New Jersey’s Attorney General from 1974 to 1978 under Governor Byrne. In addition to his political career, he was an accomplished clarinetist and developed a close friendship with his idol, Benny Goodman, who appointed William F. Hyland as the executor and trustee of his estate in later years.
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