Photo above is from the 400 block of Federal Street in approximately 1890.
Welcome to Camden History, unsurprisingly about Camden, New Jersey, a city steeped in history and brimming with stories that have left an indelible mark on the tapestry of America’s past. Situated on the banks of the Delaware River, Camden has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. From its indigenous Lenape inhabitants to the bustling industrial hub of the 19th and 20th centuries, and from its pivotal role in the Underground Railroad to its contributions to the birth of the recording industry, Camden has played a significant part in shaping the nation’s narrative.
Camden’s origins can be traced back to the early 17th century when European settlers first arrived in the region. Over time, it evolved from a quaint village into a thriving industrial center, earning it the nickname “The City Invincible” in the late 19th century. The city’s industries, including shipbuilding, manufacturing, and commerce, contributed to its growth and prosperity.
But Camden’s history is not just one of industry and commerce; it’s also a story of resilience, community, and cultural diversity. Throughout its past, the city has been home to waves of immigrants, each adding their unique traditions and flavors to the city’s vibrant cultural mosaic.
Join us on a journey through time as we explore the people, places, and events that have shaped Camden’s captivating history. From the waterfront to the neighborhoods, from famous figures to everyday citizens, we invite you to discover the hidden gems and untold tales that make Camden a city worth exploring and celebrating.
Whatever your interest, we invite you to join us, have a virtual coffee, subscribe to our email updates, and contribute your own insights.
Remnants of Camden’s history are all around you if you know where to look!
Dr. Dillwyn Parrish Pancoast was born on March 11, 1836, in Mullica Hill, Harrison Township, NJ, to Israel Pancoast, a farmer, and his wife, Sarah Ann Lippincott. As of October 1850, he had at least two older brothers, Stacy and Keasby Pancoast, and a sister, Mary… Read more: Dillwyn P. Pancoast
Linden Street runs east from the Delaware River to North 12th Street. Over the years, large portions of the street have been demolished to accommodate the construction of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Rutgers University, the toll plaza, and related infrastructure projects.
James McDade was born in Pennsylvania in September 1860 and had moved to Camden by 1884. His wife, Emma Ferkler, was seven years older than him. Together, they had three children: James Jr., born in October 1886; Joseph, born in May 1887; and Emma, born in… Read more: James McDade
Point Street was originally laid out in 1804, running between William Cooper’s house and ferry in what is now North Camden and Cooper Street. It was long known as Cooper’s Point Road, with its current name derived from that designation. Following the riverbank, the road provided… Read more: Point Street
The First Drive-In Theater: The Story of Its Creation and the Woman Behind It More than 100 years ago, an article appeared on the last page of the Courier-Post, announcing the construction of a revolutionary outdoor movie venue — the Drive-In Theater. Just two days earlier,… Read more: The First Drive-In Theater
The Campbell Soup Company has been a cornerstone of Camden, New Jersey’s history since its founding in 1869 by Joseph Campbell and Abraham Anderson. Originally established as Anderson & Campbell, the company began by producing canned tomatoes, vegetables, jellies, condiments, and mincemeat.Over time, it evolved into… Read more: The Campbell Soup Company
Gant Street was a short street that ran from Knight Street eastward to 1235 South 2nd Street, located between Liberty and Mechanic Streets. No houses were listed on Gant Street in the 1924 Camden City Directory or in any subsequent directory. It is likely that no… Read more: Camac Street (aka Gant Street)
Columbia Avenue was a short street that extended east from North 5th Street, situated between Arch and Market Streets, ending at the George Genge School. This school was demolished in the late 1920s to clear the site for the current City Hall. By the 1930s, the… Read more: Columbia Avenue
Ray Street is a one-block street running north from Pearl Street to Elm Street, situated between Borton Street and North 9th Street. It first appeared in city directories in 1890. By 2006, no houses remained standing on Ray Street. The street was named after Mrs. “Ray”… Read more: Ray Street
Crefeld Street, once a short street extending east from 1540 Haddon Avenue, is noted in the 1943 and 1947 Camden City Directories. While the street still exists, it has likely been decades since anyone gave much thought to its name. The reason for this can be… Read more: Crefeld Street (aka Arion Ave)
George Denniston Haley was born on June 14, 1848, in New York City, NY. Orphaned at birth, he never knew his parents’ names — a fact confirmed in his Civil War pension records and on his death certificate, where his eldest son, George Jr., left the… Read more: George D. Haley
Henry Roy Steele, widely recognized in Camden, New Jersey, for his basketball prowess and as a tavern owner, left a lasting legacy despite his passing in 1946. Taverns bearing his name continued to operate in Camden and Somers Point, NJ, into the mid-1960s, highlighting his enduring… Read more: H. Roy Steele