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!

Paul W. Posey death notice, Camden Courier-Post, January 25, 1972
News Articles

Paul W. Posey

Paul W. Posey, 78, of 217 Birch Street, Camden, died January 24, 1972. He is survived by his wife, Lela, and siblings from Washington, D.C.

·1 min read
Lydia M. Gonce obituary — Camden Courier-Post, January 25, 1972
News Articles

Lydia M. Gonce

Obituary for Lydia M. Gonce (née Mason), 79, wife of the late James Gonce of 501 Beideman Avenue, Camden. Funeral services at Keller Funeral Home, Maple Shade, with interment at Arlington Cemetery.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, January 25, 1972 — Minnie Roth Wishnoff death notice, 225 Ablett Village
News Articles

Wishnoff

Death notice for Minnie Roth Wishnoff, 77, of 225 Ablett Village, Camden — wife of the late Samuel Wishnoff. Camden Courier-Post, January 25, 1972.

·1 min read
Camden Bank, Business Bldg. Targets of Two Firebombings — Camden Courier-Post, December 22, 1971
News Articles

Camden Bank, Business Bldg. Targets of Two Firebombings

Two firebombings struck Camden within 16 minutes of each other on December 22, 1971. The first was at 333 Arch Street, housing several businesses including the Puerto Rico Labor Department office. The second struck the Third National Bank of New Jersey at 27th and Federal Streets. Police impounded a red Volkswagen matching witness descriptions. There were no injuries.

·3 min read
Newspaper clipping: 5 Juveniles Arrested in Plant Blaze
News Articles

5 Juveniles Arrested in Plant Blaze

Five North Camden boys aged 11 to 14 were arrested after a general-alarm fire at the vacant former John R. Evans Co. leather tanning plant at Second and Erie Streets in December 1971; Fire Marshal Harold Pike estimated the loss at up to $200,000.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Fire Death Of Woman Is Probed
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Fire Death Of Woman Is Probed

Fire Marshal Harold Pike enlisted the Camden detective bureau to investigate the death of Mrs. Elizabeth McLeish, 37, found burned to death in her Woodland Avenue home in November 1971.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, November 29, 1971 — Obituary for Martha Bostic of 950 Jefferson Avenue
News Articles

Martha Bostic

Obituary of Martha Bostic, 89, of 950 Jefferson Avenue, a 46-year member of Bethel AME Church and widow of Camden policeman Thomas H. Bostic, who died November 27, 1971.

·1 min read
Obituary of Margaret E. Hepworth, 3062 Alabama Road — Camden Courier-Post, November 29, 1971
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Margaret E. Hepworth

Obituary of Margaret E. Hepworth, 80, of 3062 Alabama Road, Camden — wife of the late Thomas Hepworth. Camden Courier-Post, November 29, 1971.

·1 min read
Blaze Damages Werner Home — Camden Courier-Post, July 27, 1971
News Articles

Blaze Damages Werner Home

The living room of Francis Werner's home at 822 North 30th Street was swept by fire when a television set caught fire. The blaze was reported at 8:15 a.m. and brought under control within minutes by Battalion Chief John Giuliano's crews.

·1 min read
Two widows of Camden patrolmen slain in 1969 at Police Week ceremonies on Lits Plaza, Camden
News Articles

Two Widows of Camden Patrolmen

A Camden Courier-Post photograph from May 1971 shows the widows of patrolmen Charles W. Sutman and George E. Schultz Jr., slain in the line of duty in 1969, at Police Week ceremonies on Lits Plaza in Camden.

·1 min read
Mailahn death notice, Camden Courier-Post, February 4, 1971
News Articles

Mailahn (death notice)

Paid death notice for Camden fireman Harry Mailahn, 44, of 2924 Royden Street, who died February 1, 1971, listing his survivors and funeral arrangements.

·1 min read