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
- Henry A. Yip
Henry A. Yip was born in 1947 and devoted his career to public service. He joined the Camden Fire Department (CFD) on June 12, 1970, serving the City of Camden with distinction for over 29 years until his retirement on January 1, 2000. Henry Yip was… Read more: Henry A. Yip - Aloysius “Patsy” MozierAloysius Eugene Francis Patrick “Patsy” Mozier led a fascinating and multifaceted life that spanned military service, professional sports, criminal missteps, and humanitarian efforts. Born on April 20, 1903, in Virginia to Alonzo John and Teresa Moore Mozier, his family relocated to Camden, NJ, by 1920. They… Read more: Aloysius “Patsy” Mozier
- Florence “Sally” HornerFlorence “Sally” Horner: A Tragic Story of Abduction and Inspiration Florence “Sally” Horner lived with her widowed mother, Ella Horner, at 944 Linden Street in North Camden when, in June 1948, she was abducted by Frank LaSalle. LaSalle, a 50-year-old convicted pedophile, held Sally captive for… Read more: Florence “Sally” Horner
- Charles Hobart CorsonCharles Hobart Corson, commonly known as Hobart Corson, was born in Camden, New Jersey, on July 23, 1902, to W. Penn Corson and his wife, the former Catherine Kronenwetter. He had an older brother, William Wallace Corson, and two younger brothers, Edward Mahlon and John Marvin… Read more: Charles Hobart Corson
- George BirchGeorge Birch was born on May 10, 1905, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His father either passed away or abandoned the family, leaving George’s mother, Katherine Halligan, an illiterate Irish immigrant, to raise him alone. Around age 10 or 11, George suffered a head injury that left him… Read more: George Birch
- Joseph M. Nardi, Jr
Joseph M. Nardi Jr. served as Camden’s mayor from 1969 to 1973 and had a distinguished career as a judge and community leader. Born and raised in Camden, he graduated from the Rutgers University School of Law in 1956 and became actively involved in various professional… Read more: Joseph M. Nardi, Jr - Ron “Itchy” Smith
Ron "Itchy" Smith, a standout basketball player and guard for Camden High School, graduated in 1960 after an exceptional basketball career. Over three seasons, he scored 1,276 points and led Camden to back-to-back Group 4 basketball championships in 1959 and 1960. Playing under basketball coach Tony… Read more: Ron “Itchy” Smith - Alexander WilsonAlexander Wilson was born in Pennsylvania in 1847, according to the 1870 Census. By that time, he lived in Camden’s South Ward, worked as a hotel waiter, and boarded with Eliza Williams. He was single at the time. On April 8, 1877, Camden Fire Department records… Read more: Alexander Wilson
- Captain Benjamin Coley – History of Camden CountyCaptain Benjamin D. Coley, son of John and Ann (Day) Coley, born at Baddell, Bedfordshire, England, February 1, 1826, emigrated with his parents to America in 1829, landed at Philadelphia and soon afterward located in Camden. At the age of six he went to live with… Read more: Captain Benjamin Coley – History of Camden County
- John McKayJohn McKay was born on October 22, 1891, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Malcolm and Mary McKay. Along with his brothers Malcolm, Thomas, and Stanley, John grew up at 362 East Indiana Avenue in Philadelphia, as recorded in the 1900 Census. By 1910, the family had relocated… Read more: John McKay
- Benjamin D. Coley
Benjamin Coley was born in England on February 1, 1826, and immigrated to America as a child. He lived briefly in Camden, New Jersey, during the 1830s and returned in the mid-1840s. Upon his return, he worked for businessman Richard Fetters for five years before venturing… Read more: Benjamin D. Coley - 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