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 111

Thomas Warren, 2357 Baird Boulevard, Camden Courier-Post August 29, 1983
News Articles

Warren

Death notice for Thomas (Big) Warren, 63, of 2357 Baird Boulevard, Camden, a retired City of Camden fireman who died August 24, 1983. Camden Courier-Post, August 29, 1983.

·1 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 accused mass murderer Howard Unruh from an upstairs window during the 1949 Cramer Hill rampage. Camden Courier-Post, August 17, 1983.

·1 min read
Courier-Post article 'Suspect identified' on the warrant in the Efraim Cintron murder, May 9, 1982
News Articles

Suspect identified

Camden police issued an arrest warrant for Saint-claire Boatwright, 29, wanted for questioning in the murder of Efraim "Frank" Cintron at 47 North Dudley Street. Camden Courier-Post, May 9, 1982.

·1 min read
Courier-Post article 'City man murdered' about the death of Efraim Cintron of 47 N. Dudley St., May 2, 1982
News Articles

City man murdered

Efraim "Frank" Cintron, 25, of 47 North Dudley Street, was found murdered in his East Camden home by his wife, Rose. Camden Courier-Post, May 2, 1982.

·1 min read
Front-page Camden Courier-Post story "4-alarm fire hits City Hall" with a photo of firefighters in the burned 14th floor offices, stitched to its continuation "4-alarm fire ravages 2 county offices in City Hall" from page 9A
News Articles

4-alarm fire hits City Hall

Camden Courier-Post, February 10, 1982: a four-alarm fire damaged county offices on the 14th floor of Camden City Hall; Battalion Chief John Giuliano and Capt. John Dimaggio are quoted.

·1 min read
Fire officials inspect burned 14th floor county offices after the February 1982 City Hall fire
News Articles

Inspecting damage

Fire officials inspect 14th floor offices after an early morning blaze damaged two county offices in February 1982; the fire knocked radio station WSSJ off the air for about an hour.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post clipping, September 19, 1981: Camden blaze guts vacant row house
News Articles

Camden blaze guts vacant row house

A vacant row house at 826 Grant Street in North Camden was gutted by fire; Camden Fire Chief John Giuliano said one fireman received a minor hand injury.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, Blaze destroys business, about the Du Bell Lumber Co. fire in Camden, August 30, 1981
News Articles

Blaze destroys business

A five-alarm fire destroyed the Du Bell Lumber Co. in the 1800 block of Federal Street and damaged the adjacent Concrete Steel Co., drawing fire equipment from eight neighboring towns amid a city dispute over the planned layoff of 30 police officers and 17 firefighters.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, March 30, 1981: Merit awards given to Camden firefighters and two citizens
News Articles

Merit awards

Outgoing Camden fire chief Theodore Primas presented awards to two citizens and fire personnel, including those who fought a fire at 2930 Cramer St.; John J. Mogck Jr. was sworn in as the new chief.

·1 min read
Death notice for Mary (nee Zurinski) Pitner, Camden Courier-Post, January 4, 1981.
News Articles

Pitner

Death notice for Mary (nee Zurinski) Pitner, 60, wife of Peter Pitner of Camden, who died suddenly December 31, 1980, with funeral arrangements at Foster's Funeral Home and St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church.

·1 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