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!
Philadelphia Inquirer – March 31, 1904 After several weeks’ illness from progressive paralysis, Charles Watson, one of Camden’s best-known citizens, died at his home at 223 Cooper street, shortly after 9 o’clock last night. He was 73 years old and leaves a widow and daughter. Mr.… Read more: Charles Watson Dead in Camden
713 Broadway, Camden, NJ The Lester store was a key part of Camden's retail landscape from the 1920s through the 1960s, offering men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing as well as jewelry. For much of its history, the store was located at 713 Broadway, between Line and… Read more: Lester Store
Paul A. Woodward, a resident of 221 Benson Street, committed the murder of two young boys by poisoning them on October 1, 1902. He was the son of Thomas and Bella Woodward. Following his arrest, Woodward was tried, convicted of the first-degree murder of one of… Read more: Paul A. Woodward
AKA: Jennings Sixth Regiment BandAKA: Jennings Third Regiment Band Jennings’ Band, originally known as the National Cornet Band, was a well-known musical group in Camden from the 1880s until America’s entry into World War I in 1917. It was established in 1868 with Joseph Jennings as… Read more: Jenning’s Band
3100 Federal St, Camden, NJ 08105 Now known as Eastside High School, Woodrow Wilson School, located at 3100 Federal Street in East Camden, was originally constructed as a junior high. It officially opened in this capacity by February 1930. However, in June 1933, Camden underwent a… Read more: Woodrow Wilson High School
Canterbury Circle extends southward from Olive Street into the Canterbury Apartments complex, situated between South 8th Street and I-676, South of Morgan Street and West of Morgan Boulevard, in the Morgan Village neighborhood of Camden. This area is part of a residential community in the southern… Read more: Canterbury Circle
Carman Street is thought to have been named after William Carman, who owned a home at the southwest corner of Broadway and Federal Street in Camden, New Jersey. His house, which was erected in 1830, was notable for its position on an elevation about 15 to… Read more: Carman Street
Adams Avenue, located in the Cramer Hill section of Camden, NJ, was named after President John Quincy Adams. This is evident given that many nearby streets were named after presidents from the same era, including Van Buren, Polk, Pierce, Harrison, and Tyler. Adams Avenue begins near… Read more: Adams Avenue
Ada Street ran from Cherry Street south to Walnut Street, located one block east of South 9th Street. There were no houses listed on Ada Street in the 1947 City Directory. The street does not appear in directories prior to 1890-1891 and is absent from the… Read more: Ada Street
Cambridge Street, also known as Cambridge Avenue, begins at the Delaware River in what was once the Pavonia section, now considered part of Cramer Hill. It runs eastward, crossing Harrison Avenue, Pierce Avenue, Wayne Avenue, and River Avenue, before intersecting with North 27th Street, located between… Read more: Cambridge Street
Camden Terrace was a small street in Camden's Eighth Ward, running south from Fairview Street between South 6th Street and Master Street. It is absent from the 1906, 1914, and 1918 City Directories but does appear in the 1924 edition. However, there are no homes listed… Read more: Camden Terrace