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!
Latest Posts
- Theodore T. KauselTheodore T. Kausel was born in New York on October 25, 1885. By 1919, he resided in Camden, New Jersey, where he served as superintendent of the Castle Kid Company, one of the city’s leather manufacturing businesses. According to the 1920 Census, he lived at 1473… Read more: Theodore T. Kausel
- A Zeppelin Over City Hall, Camden, NJ
Zeppelins were developed by Count Ferdinand Zeppelin, who was determined and tireless in his goal to build a dirigible for Germany. At age 61, he flew his first airship, the LZ1, over Lake Constance on July 2, 1900. Zeppelin lived to see his invention used by… Read more: A Zeppelin Over City Hall, Camden, NJ - Wite 60-Minute Cleaning Service1177 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ Originally located at 2000 South 7th Street in Camden, the Wite 60 Minute Cleaning Service relocated to 1177 Haddon Avenue in the 1960s. A long-standing fixture in the Camden community, the business operated for many years before the White Brothers closed… Read more: Wite 60-Minute Cleaning Service
- The Story of the Gottlieb FamilyAs Told by Dr. Stuart Gottlieb M.D. Since I grew up in Camden and worked with my dad at the family business on Mt Vernon St. from the time that I could hold a knife, about age 7 (1947),the site visit was particularly nostalgic. I will… Read more: The Story of the Gottlieb Family
- Daniel A. Gottlieb
Daniel A. Gottlieb was born in Russia on August 18, 1882, and immigrated to America in 1890. After marrying Fannie, the couple lived for a time in Pennsylvania, where they welcomed daughter Essie in 1907 and son James in 1909. By 1912, the Gottlieb family had… Read more: Daniel A. Gottlieb - A. M. Mucci – V.F.W. BandThe band was formed in the later thirties. Its founder was Joseph Constantino. Rehearsal facilities shifted a few times at different locations in South Camden. The band performed at most of the religious processions (honoring saints primarily) sponsored by Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Roman Catholic… Read more: A. M. Mucci – V.F.W. Band
- Admiral Wilson at the Naval Academy – 1921-1925Rear Admiral Henry B. Wilson '81 (1921-1925), the twenty-sixth superintendent, reported to the Naval Academy having just completed a tour as Commander in Chief, Atlantic Fleet, reverting from a four star billet to that of a Rear Admiral upon acceptance of his new orders. An imposing… Read more: Admiral Wilson at the Naval Academy – 1921-1925
- Admiral Henry B. Wilson Jr.Henry Braid Wilson Jr. was born on Mount Vernon Street in Camden, NJ, on February 23, 1861, to Henry Braid Wilson Sr. and Mary Ann Wilson. His father was a prominent local figure, serving in various public roles, including as a businessman, City Council member, and… Read more: Admiral Henry B. Wilson Jr.
- Charles M. GladneyCharles Miller Gladney was born in New Jersey on September 2, 1877, to George and Mary Gladney. In 1878, the family lived at 728 Mount Vernon Street, but by 1880, George, Mary, and their older son David had moved to 432 Liberty Street in Camden. During… Read more: Charles M. Gladney
- Jesse D. Seybold
Jesse D. Seybold was born in New Jersey in February 1892 to Charles and Lizzie Seybold, though records vary on the exact date, listing February 2, 7, or 8. His grandfather, John D. Seybold, had settled in Camden before 1850 and ran a bakery at 303… Read more: Jesse D. Seybold - Jesse P. JohnsonJesse P. Johnson was born around 1873 in Des Moines, Iowa, and moved to Camden, New Jersey, around 1890. The 1890-1891 Camden City Directory lists him living at the corner of 9th and Pearl Streets and working as a salesman in Philadelphia. He married his wife,… Read more: Jesse P. Johnson
- John A. Ewing
John Atwood Ewing was born on July 7, 1845, in Delaware to parents John and May Ewing. In his early years, he lived in Penns Grove, Salem County, New Jersey. By 1850, the family had moved to Upper Penn’s Neck, New Jersey, where John and May… Read more: John A. Ewing