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!

The HMT Rohna, a British vessel carrying American troops, was hit by a German missile in 1943 off the coast of North Africa.
News Articles

Remembering the HMT Rohna

Tom Brokaw's NBC Nightly News report on the sinking of the HMT Rohna on November 26, 1943, in which 1,015 American troops were lost — the greatest loss at sea of U.S. personnel in World War II.

·3 min read
News Articles

Edna Mae Keating

Obituary of Edna Mae (nee Carey) Keating of Clementon, formerly of Camden and Cape May, age 75, beloved wife of 58 years to Henry J. Keating Sr. Camden Courier-Post, September 18, 2000.

·1 min read
News Articles

2 Camden Firefighters Hurt in Two-alarmer

Two Camden firefighters, Joel Bain and Bryan Emenecker, were injured in a two-alarm rowhouse fire at 430 North Erie Street that spread to a nearby church and two homes. A 5-year-old playing with matches was suspected of starting the blaze.

·1 min read
3 Kings Bring Joy to Camden
News Articles

3 Kings bring glee to children

By ANGELA RUCKER, Courier-Post Staff CAMDEN — Six-year-old Danny Dombkowski paused briefly — very briefly — after scooting out of the McGuire Gardens Community Center with his arms wrapped around a box filled with toy cars and other contraptions.

·3 min read
News Articles

Boulevard was named for Decorated World War I admiral

Camden Courier-Post - September 6, 1999 By LAURIE STUART Courier-Post Admiral Wilson. Motorists who have driven through Camden instantly recognize the name, but most don't know who he is. Henry Braid Wilson was born in Camden in 1861.

·3 min read
News Articles

Top Cop

Rowan Magazine - Summer 1999 Robert E. Allenbach '95, Camden's chief of police, is laying down the law in one of the country's most crime-ridden cities.

·3 min read
Camden-Files-for-Bankruptcy-2
News Articles

Camden files for bankruptcy

Action brings showdown with state over aid By HAROLD T. NEDO, Courier Post Staff Camden Saying the city would run out of money in two weeks, Camden officials filed for bankruptcy protection Monday in a showdown with the state over financial aid.

·6 min read
Hurley Store in Camden
News Articles

Hurley's Store Brought Luxury to Camden

Camden Courier-Post - April 6, 1999 By Harold T. Nedd The retail stores that gave Broadway in downtown Camden City its luster five decades ago can be found in the pages of the biography of Chuck Doyle's grandfather.

·3 min read
News Articles

Gertrude M. Torgun

Camden Courier-Post - March 12, 1999 On March 11, 1999, Gertrude M. (nee Gallagher) of Gloucester City, NJ. Age 74 yrs. Beloved wife of George Torgun . Loving mother of Richard and George Torgun, Gertrude Cassel and Glenn Torgun.

·1 min read
Milton Milan Letter
News Articles

Residents Letter from Milton Milan

September, 1998 OFFICE OF THE MAYOR, CITY OF CAMDEN MILTON MILAN CITY HALL , FOURTH FLOOR CAMDEN, NEW JERSEY 08101-5120 609 757-7200 FAX 609 963-1841 Dear Fellow Residents: I take this opportunity to write to you and share my excitement about the progress that the City of Camden has seen over the past year.

·5 min read