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 113

Sgt. A. Wesley Faust portrait, Pottstown Mercury May 23, 1977
News Articles

Sgt. Wesley Faust Stricken on Duty

Sgt. A. Wesley Faust, a seven-year veteran of the New Hanover police department, suffered a fatal heart attack while assisting Limerick Township police at a three-car accident on Swamp Pike.

·1 min read
News Articles

Fire Rescue at 1440 Sheridan Street

Fire Watch commended firefighters of Engines 7 and 8 for rescuing a trapped, unconscious woman from a fire at 1440 Sheridan Street on March 27, 1977, and Fr. Denny Dowhy of Ladder Co. 2 for saving the life of a man's best friend.

·1 min read
News Articles

Fr. Chuck Mayo

Fire Watch magazine honors Fr. Chuck Mayo of Ladder Co. 1 for saving a fellow firefighter from falling off an icy roof at 513 Cooper Street on January 2, 1977.

·1 min read
Contents page of Fire Watch magazine, Vol. 1 No. 1, Spring 1977.
News Articles

Fire Watch: In This Issue

The opening page of the inaugural issue of Fire Watch (Vol. 1 No. 1, Spring 1977), the magazine published by and for Camden firefighters, with its table of contents, a note on the cover photo of the 6 June 1976 Harris Terminal Complex fire at Mt. Ephraim Avenue and Fairview Street, and the department, union and staff directories.

·1 min read
Fire Watch Magazine, Spring 1977: a page of patrons' advertisements for Camden businesses in a grid of fifteen boxes
News Articles

Our Patrons

An "Our Patrons" page of fifteen advertisements from the Spring 1977 Fire Watch Magazine, including Terry's Famous Pizza Box at 200 S. 27th St. at Benson St., Bruno's Restaurant, Crystal 1 Hr. Cleaners and the Trent Bar & Liquors.

·1 min read
From the Rule Book: General Order 76-1 and patron advertisements, Fire Watch Magazine, Spring 1977
News Articles

From the Rule Book

A page from the Spring 1977 Fire Watch Magazine reprinting excerpts of Camden Fire Department General Order #76-1 on fire radio communications procedures, with an "Our Patrons" advertisement grid including Euler's Floor Coverings at 1801 Haddon Avenue.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, February 1, 1977 — Julius Porter obituary
News Articles

Porter

Julius Porter, 72, of 713 North 10th Street, Camden, died February 1, 1977. Survived by wife Caroline, son William Porter, and seven grandchildren.

·1 min read
Death notice for Charles H. Devlin of 1675 Collings Road, Fairview, Camden Courier-Post, January 18, 1977.
News Articles

Devlin

Death notice for Charles H. Devlin, 64, of 1675 Collings Road, Fairview, a retired Camden city fireman and member of the Hot Stovers Baseball Club, with funeral arrangements at the Myrtetus Funeral Home.

·1 min read
Grant Wilinski, Mrs. Frank Kitchmire, and Peter Banasik reviewing the musical program - Camden County Record, November 25, 1976
News Articles

Tickets Still Available for Polish Concert

A November 1976 Camden County Record notice that tickets remained available for "A Night With Polish Composers," presented by the Polish American Congress, South Jersey Division, at the Haddon Fortnightly in Haddonfield.

·2 min read