Welcome to our website dedicated to the fascinating and rich history of Camden, New Jersey. Situated just across the river from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Camden’s story is one of evolution, from its humble beginnings as a quaint settlement founded by the Coopers, to the acquisition of surrounding towns and the addition of modern amenities such as paved roads and automobiles. Eventually, it became a bustling industrial city with a legacy of manufacturing and innovation.
Remnants of Camden’s history can still be found all around if you know where to look. With the help of our user-friendly menu and search functionality, you can explore the city’s past, whether it’s locating a dirt trail that was once a street, researching information about your ancestors, or delving into our archives for Camden News or the Camden Electrical Bureau. Perhaps you’re even trying to learn about John Wilkes Booth’s killer!
Whatever your interest, we invite you to join us, have a virtual coffee, subscribe to our email updates, and contribute your own insights and knowledge by registering and joining our community.
Remnants of Camden’s history are all around you if you know where to look!
Latest Posts
- Arthur C. Dorrance
Inspired by his brother’s success at Campbell Soup, Arthur joined the company and became an integral part of its growth and transformation. Driven by his entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen, he played a pivotal role in expanding Campbell Soup’s reach and solidifying its position as a household name worldwide. - John T. Dorrance
Dr. Dorrance invented condensed soup, propelling Campbell Soup to global recognition. He eventually became president of Campbell Soup until his death in 1930. - Turner Hall
Turner Hall held a prominent position within the German-American community in Camden and played a multifaceted role in promoting athletic, political, and social activities. Following the unsuccessful 1848 revolution in Germany, a substantial number of German immigrants, including members of the Turners, sought refuge in the United States. - Ethan P. Wescott
Ethan P. Wescott (1883-1954) was a lawyer in New Jersey, following in his father’s footsteps. Active in fraternal organizations, he had a successful legal career and later ventured into the dairy business. Buried in Camden, NJ. - Abraham J. Stow
Abraham J. Stow joined the Camden Fire Department on April 8, 1876, replacing John Fallan as an extra man in Engine Company 2. Prior to his appointment, he worked as a teamster driller and continued in that profession after leaving the Fire Department. - Carl F. Kellman
Carl Kellman was shot and fatally injured during a robbery a few blocks away from his home while returning from a church carnival on October 13, 1912. He passed away the following morning. - Samuel LanningSamuel Lanning, or Laning, was selected as the inaugural Mayor of Camden, appointed by his fellow council members in both 1828 and 1829.
- Clayton Truax
Clayton Truax was a Camden shoemaker and politician, serving as mayor, on city council, and on the board of education. - John V. Wilkie
John V. Wilkie, a Camden Police Officer, was born on June 29, 1898, and had a remarkable and tumultuous life in Camden. His father, William Wilkie, a Scottish merchant seaman, instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of adventure. - William T. Feitz
Detective Feitz was investigating three men who had entered a home at 243 Sycamore Street when he was gunned down from behind. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at West Jersey Hospital. - Fred Klosterman
Fred Klosterman and his brother Joseph were heavily involved in the illegal lottery, or “numbers” racket, in Whitman Park and South Camden in the 1930s and 1940s. - Joseph Klosterman
Along with his brother Fred Klosterman, Joseph became heavily involved in the illegal lottery, or “numbers” racket, in Whitman Park and South Camden in the 1930s and 1940s. The Klosterman brothers were very active in Camden in the early 1930s.