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
- George FrostGeorge Frost was the son of Andrew and Christiana Frost, both of whom were born in what is now Germany. The family name was originally Fraust, and his parents and siblings continued using that name into the 1870s. Shortly after the birth of George's older brother… Read more: George Frost
- Gloria Bonilla-Santiago
Gloria Bonilla-Santiago is the founder of Camden’s LEAP Academy, a charter school that currently operates in the former Elks’ Lodge building at North 7th Street and Cooper Street. - Daniel M. GallucciDaniel M. Gallucci was born in Camden, New Jersey, on July 11, 1939, to Dominick J. Gallucci and Marietta A. Paradise. The 1940 Census recorded the family living at 1315 Park Boulevard, along with Daniel's maternal aunt, Rose, and her husband, James Fullerton. His younger brother,… Read more: Daniel M. Gallucci
- Cooper B. Hatch
Cooper Browning Hatch was a prominent citizen of Camden in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born to Joseph and Mary Hatch in a farmhouse that now houses the Camden County Historical Society. His father, Joseph Hatch, owned extensive land in what is… Read more: Cooper B. Hatch - Harry J. Burrichter
Harry J. Burrichter was born in 1877 in New Jersey to Henry J. and Katherine Burrichter. In 1880, the family lived at 929 Broadway, where Henry Burrichter operated a grocery store. A few years later, he moved to 1727 Broadway and ran a feed and grain… Read more: Harry J. Burrichter - George H. Durar III
George H. Durar III was born in the Bronx, New York, to Jean and George Durar Jr. He was one of four siblings, along with his brother Brandon and sisters Daralyn and Deana. After serving in the U.S. military, George Durar III joined the Camden Fire… Read more: George H. Durar III - Frederick MorseFrederick William Sheppard Morse was born in New Jersey on February 18, 1880, to Captain William and Annie Morse. His father, originally from Germany, immigrated to America in 1870 and eventually became a sea captain, while his mother was born in Nova Scotia. In the 1881-1882… Read more: Frederick Morse
- Henry E. ZookHenry Evans Zook was born on March 29, 1888, in Evesham Township, New Jersey, to John Trimble Zook Sr. and Mary B. Evans. He was the youngest of seven siblings: Amos, Sarah, Elizabeth, Joseph, Anne, and John T. Zook Jr. In late 1893 or early 1894,… Read more: Henry E. Zook
- Spring StreetSpring Street in Camden dates back to at least 1850 and was mapped by 1891 to run north-south from Clinton Street, situated between Second Street and Front Street in South Camden. Although originally planned to extend as far south as Walnut Street, its development was obstructed… Read more: Spring Street
- Starr AvenueStarr Avenue, later renamed Mt. Ephraim Avenue between 1914 and 1946, ran northeast from Border Street to Federal Street near the Cooper River and was named after Jesse W. and John F. Starr, founders of Camden Iron Works. The foundry’s former site has housed Campbell Soup’s… Read more: Starr Avenue
- Abraham Lincoln JamesAbraham Lincoln James, commonly known as A. L. James or A. Lincoln James, was a career officer with the Camden Police Department, serving for 40 years. He was a close friend of David Baird Sr., a prominent Camden County sheriff, U.S. senator, and Republican leader in… Read more: Abraham Lincoln James
- Remembering Doctor Paul CohenI’ve been meaning to ask you for quite awhile if you know of, or are related to our family Doctor from the 50’s and 60’s. His name was Paul Cohen and he was at 5th and State Streets. He treated every member of our family from… Read more: Remembering Doctor Paul Cohen