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

Unknown Title

Reservations are no longer available at St. Joseph's rectory for today's visit to greet Jozef Cardinal Glemp at Doylestown, Pa.

·8 min read
News Articles

Benefit Social for St. Joseph's

A September 1985 Camden County Record notice of a benefit social for St. Joseph's Church in South Camden, sponsored by the Polish American Congress, South Jersey Division, at the Polish American Citizens' Club.

·1 min read
News Articles

Car Theft: City Force Gaining Ground on Crime

Camden Courier-Post - March 17, 1985 That wasn't always the case. Statistics compiled by police in Camden city show nearly 300 stolen cars had been coming into the city each month late last year and early this year.

·6 min read
Evesham teen indicted on samurai-style attack
News Articles

Evesham teen indicted in samurai-style attack

Camden Courier Post - February 21, 1985 MOUNT HOLLY—A 15-year-old Evesham youth yesterday was indicted by a Burlington County grand Jury in connection with the Nov. 9 samurai-style sword attack on two elderly neighbors.

·1 min read
Police Community Get Acquainted
News Articles

Police, Community Get Acquainted

By JEFFREY BRAMNICK, Courier-Post Staff CAMDEN - The guests ate cookies, and drank coffee and soda while waiting for the master of the house to give them a tour.

·3 min read
Pair attacked by burglar with sword
News Articles

Pair attacked by burglar with sword

Camden Courier-Post - November 9, 1984 EVESHAM - An elderly township couple was terrorized and injured this morning by a would-be burglar wielding a sword. Police said Angelo Levecchia .

·1 min read
Girl, 6, dies in city blaze — Camden Courier-Post, March 14, 1984
News Articles

Girl, 6, Dies in City Blaze

Valerie Kalyta, 6, was killed and Jennifer Fustin, 5, critically injured in an intense fire at 906 North 28th Street. Valerie was pronounced dead on arrival at Cooper Hospital; Jennifer was transferred to St. Christopher's burn unit in Philadelphia.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post, August 17, 1983 - F.X. Engel Sr., Shot Howard Unruh
News Articles

F.X. Engel Sr., Shot Howard Unruh

Obituary of Francis X. Engel Sr., the Camden tavern owner who shot and wounded mass murderer Howard Unruh from an upstairs window during the 1949 Cramer Hill rampage. Camden Courier-Post, August 17, 1983.

·2 min read
Source of Fire Obscure - 1980-12-02 - 01
News Articles

Source of Fire Obscure

Camden Courier-Post - December 2, 1980 CAMDEN—The intense heat of a fire that killed four children here yesterday caused so much damage to their Erie Street row home that authorities are having trouble determining the cause of the blaze.

·5 min read
Newspaper clipping: Friends will honor veteran firefighter
News Articles

Friends Will Honor Veteran Firefighter

On the eve of his March 1980 retirement dinner, Camden fire captain John P. Gryckiewicz looked back on 40 years with the department — the rescues, the Garden State Race Track fire, 84-hour weeks and $60 paychecks, and a city he still loved.

·4 min read