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!

Given Screen Test
News Articles

Kathryn H. Trado, Singer in Vaudeville

Philadelphia Inquirer - March 24, 1998 By S. Joseph Hagenmayer, Inquirer Correspondent. Kathryn Hamilton Trado , 88, a 1930s and 1940s vaudeville singer heralded as "Camden's own," died Wednesday at West Jersey Hospital-Camden .

·3 min read
News Articles

Fire Destroys Row of Houses in Camden

A three-alarm fire starting at an abandoned rowhouse at 63 South 24th Street destroyed eight houses on the block between Mickle Street and Carman Street in May 1996; one firefighter was hospitalized with smoke inhalation.

·2 min read
Fire Guts 5 Vacant Camden Homes
News Articles

Fire Guts 5 Vacant Camden Homes

A three-alarm arson fire destroyed five vacant rowhomes in the 700 block of Morgan Boulevard in August 1995; one Camden firefighter was treated for electrical shock and released.

·2 min read
Fire at 1442 Rose Street — Camden Courier-Post, July 15, 1995
News Articles

'Suspicious' Fire Kills Man

Percival "Poppy" Smith, 71, died in a fire officials labeled suspicious at his home at 1442 Rose Street. Acting Camden County Prosecutor Joseph Audino said all damage was through the front of the home.

·3 min read
1223-Haddon-Ave-2003-03-16-4
News Articles

In Camden, A Neighborhood Bar with The Works

Cheers to Donkey's Place , Still Kicking After 50 Years By Gwen Florio, Inquirer Staff Writer CAMDEN — It's the classic neighborhood bar: all soothing dark wood and low, easy talk and the murmur of a ballgame from a discreet corner television.

·5 min read
Thompson Endorsed by Firefighters - 1993-05-04
News Articles

Thompson endorsed by firefighters

By KEVIN RIORDAN, Courier-Post Staff Camden Courier-Post - May 4, 1993 CAMDEN - A fraternal organization of city firefighters has endorsed Mayor Aaron Thompson's bid for re-election.

·1 min read
Two-City-Employees-Help-Catch-Robbery-Suspect-1992-12-09
News Articles

Two City Employees Help Catch Robbery Suspect

By Louis T. Lounsberry and Irv Randolph, Courier-Post Staff CAMDEN—Two city employees helped police catch a robbery suspect Tuesday after a restaurant holdup that was witnessed by two state Superior Court judges.

·2 min read
News Articles

50th Wedding Anniversary

John and Mary Gryckiewicz, formerly of Camden, marked their 50th wedding anniversary in August 1992 with a party at the Innisbrook Country Club in Tarpon Springs, Florida, hosted by their six children.

·1 min read
City Fire Leaves 10 Homeless — newspaper clipping
News Articles

City Fire Leaves 10 Homeless

A three-alarm fire destroyed the duplex at 909-911 North 24th Street in the Cramer Hill section of Camden on December 17, 1991, leaving ten people homeless. (Camden Courier-Post, December 18, 1991)

·1 min read