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!

Recently added — page 107

Close-up of a man in a suit outside the entrance of the United States Bankruptcy Court in Camden.
News Articles

Camden files for bankruptcy

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. Gov. Christie Whitman called the action "reckless."

·1 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
Letter from Camden Mayor Milton Milan on Office of the Mayor letterhead, addressed to fellow residents
News Articles

Letter to Camden Residents

Mayor Milton Milan's 1998 letter to Camden residents reports a decline in crime, community policing, a Code Enforcement Task Force, the board-up and demolition of vacant houses and the city's recreation programs, and announces the 1998 slogan "Experience the Rebirth-I Believe."

·1 min read
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
Burglary suspect arrested inside bar, Camden Courier-Post, September 5, 1996
News Articles

Burglary suspect arrested inside bar

Robert L.W. Buffaloe, 36, of the 1200 block of Everett Street was arrested inside the closed Admiral Bar and Lounge on Admiral Wilson Boulevard and charged with burglary and criminal mischief. Camden Courier-Post, September 5, 1996.

·1 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
Courier-Post death notice for Anna Mae Cherry, 1996
News Articles

Cherry

Death notice for Anna Mae Cherry of Camden, 70, who died May 22, 1996, survived by her son Alfonzo; services at the Carl Miller Funeral Home on Van Hook Street.

·1 min read
Obituary of Peter Pitner, 72, of Camden, Camden Courier-Post, January 8, 1996.
News Articles

Peter Pitner

Peter Pitner, 72, of Camden, a Navy veteran of World War II, longtime Fiber-Metal Co. worker and union secretary, and 44-year member of St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church, died at Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center.

·1 min read
Burned-out rowhomes in the 700 block of Morgan Boulevard, Camden, with two men walking past, August 1995
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.

·1 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