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!

Wite Cleaners - 2003-07-09
News Articles

For Cleaners, 'Time Caught Up With Us'

Changes in clothing, economy lead brothers to close Camden business By JEANNE RIDGWAY, Courier-Post Staff CAMDEN — The dry cleaning business isn't what it used to be, and David White, 76, and his brother Benjamin, 75, are finally calling it quits.

·4 min read
News Articles

Camden record dealer 'Broadway Eddie' Warhoftig dies

By Erik Swartz, Courier-Post Staff Edward "Broadway Eddie" Warhoftig , a Cherry Hill resident and Camden businessman who won a Grammy Award as a music producer on one of the biggest-selling albums of all time, died Saturday. He was 69.

·2 min read
Judge Gavel and Book Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Camden County Prosecutor's Office

Vincent P. Sarubbi, Camden County Prosecutor March 12, 2003 Camden County Prosecutor Vincent P. Sarubbi announced that bail was set today at $1 million for Binh Thach, M/40, who is charged with two counts of Murder and one count of Attempted Murder in connection with a triple shooting in a Camden home on Monday, March 10, 2003.

·2 min read
Gun Stock Photo
News Articles

Camden Man Charged With Pair of Murders

Camden County Prosecutor Vincent P. Sarubbi announced that Binh Thach, 40, was charged with two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder in connection with the March 10, 2003 shootings at a boarding home in the 2600 block of Cramer Street.

·2 min read
Police Investigation - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Two Men Killed, Woman Wounded in Camden

Two men were shot and killed and a woman critically wounded in a 2600 block Cramer Street boarding home on March 10, 2003. Binh Thach, 40, later surrendered to police and was charged with two counts of murder.

·2 min read
News Articles

Wench Wigs Dropped for 2003 Parade

Style, $$ cited for switch to hats, tinsel Philadelphia Daily News - December 11, 2002 By RON GOLDWYN WENCH DRESS: Check. Beer pouch: Check. Hairy legs: Check. Braided wig? Negative.

·4 min read
News Articles

Henry J. Keating Sr.

Obituary of Henry J. Keating Sr., formerly of Cape May and Camden, age 82, a Camden City fireman for 25 years and member of the Knights of Columbus Nativity Council #2976, Lindenwold. Camden Courier-Post, November 28, 2002.

·1 min read
Historical Accounts

Reminiscing at 582 Auburn Street

Lois McCall (Teer) Seeligsohn's memoir about growing up in Parkside, joining the urban homesteading movement on Auburn Street in the 1970s, and being ultimately driven out by city corruption and eminent domain.

·4 min read
Veteran of one war remembers casualty of yet another — newspaper clipping
News Articles

Veteran of one war remembers casualty of yet another

Korean War veteran Stan Bednarczyk of Audubon remembers his Camden next-door neighbor Chester Gdowik — the big kid who invented "Mr. Muscles", played third base for the Falcons, and was killed in Italy in 1944 — in a Memorial Day column for the Courier-Post.

·4 min read