Camden, New Jersey

Camden History

Historical archives documenting the people, streets, and stories of Camden, New Jersey.

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.

Remnants of Camden's history are all around you if you know where to look!

News Articles

Coffman, Richard G.

Death notice for Richard G. Coffman of Cherry Hill, formerly of Westmont, a Camden firefighter of 25 years, published in the Camden Courier-Post on July 14, 2004.

·1 min read
Donkey's Place Logo
News Articles

Donkey's Place is a Stubborn Survivor, and so is its Cheesesteak

By Rick Nichols, Inquirer Columnist It is a bit of Camden in amber now, Donkey's Place is, or maybe a shrine - the dingy bar hung with photos of the founder, his dukes perpetually up; the grill steaming with steaks and onions; the back room still swathed in the original tobacco-colored mural, a sweep of Sahara, its palms chipped and faded from 60 years of wear.

·4 min read
4th Street Tunnel - 2004-07-05
Historical Accounts

4th Street Tunnel

July 5, 2004 Under The Bridge While you can drive a car under the Ben Franklin Bridge at street level from North 3rd Street east , at 4th Street there is a tunnel, closed in the early 1980s, that provided amusement for generations of local kids on bicycles, and aggravation for most adults responsible for public safety.

·1 min read
Historical Accounts

Alter Barbell - Reminiscing

There was a learned man in Hebrew who lived on Baring Street , Camden, was married, and held in his home a daily after school instruction for boys in order to be bar mitzvah-ed at their 13th birthday period. I was one of his students in 1938.

·2 min read
Repairman found time for a second career
News Articles

Repairman Found Time For a Second Career

Camden Courier-Post - May 28, 2004 Former accountant is responsible for clocks atop Camden City Hall By Luis Puga If you are looking up at the skyline of the city, it's hard to miss one of the four clocks that grace the top of City Hall .

·2 min read
News Articles

City Plans to Restore Carnegie Library

The Carnegie Library, a long-vacant landmark so neglected that trees are growing inside it, could be restored as part of the city's turnaround effort. The city is preparing to spend $250,000 to stabilize the century-old building at Broadway and Line Street, said Arijit De, executive director of the Camden Redevelopment Agency. Improvements would include a temporary roof for the once-stately structure, which is considered one of New Jersey's most endangered historic buildings. Officials then will seek $4 million in restoration funds from the state and other sources, De said.

·2 min read
River-Line-to-Debut-2004-03-12
News Articles

River Line to Debut Amid Hopes, Criticism

Sunday start is historic, but not everyone is on board By Richard Pearsall Shortly before 6 a.m. Sunday, a diesel-powered train that can carry 180 passengers will pull away from the Entertainment Center station here, marking the start of service on the South Jersey light rail line.

·5 min read
News Articles

Robert E. Gibson Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - March 5, 2004 GIBSON, ROBERT E. Of Camden, NJ on March 3, 2004, age 62. Retired superintendent of Water and Waste Water Operation for the City of Camden.

·1 min read
News Articles

Longtime Friends Still on Same Page

Daniel J. Cooperson and Barry Abrams, who met at Cramer School in East Camden in 1956, remained close friends for nearly a half-century — the subject of the book Barry and Dan, published in 2004.

·2 min read