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

Bishop's Hospital Fund Oversubscribed $200,000

Camden Courier-Post - May 19, 1964 Ground for Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital was broken September 7, 1947. More than 2,500 persons saw Bishop Eustace turn the first spadeful of earth at the site on Haddon Avenue near Euclid .

·4 min read
News Articles

McGuire, Hartmann Among The Early Organizers of Labor in City

A Camden Courier-Post retrospective on the origins of organized labor in Camden, centering on Peter J. McGuire and on the father-and-son cigarmakers Frank and Robert Hartmann, whose Third and Arch Streets factory housed the movement's earliest meetings. Robert Hartmann was elected first president of the Camden County Central Labor Union in 1908.

·7 min read
Richard C. Hardenbergh Agency advertisement, 417 Cooper Street Camden, Camden Courier-Post, May 19, 1964
News Articles

Richard C. Hardenbergh Agency

Advertisement for Richard C. Hardenbergh's insurance agency at 417 Cooper Street, offering all forms of insurance. Camden Courier-Post, May 19, 1964.

·1 min read
Cooper Hospital, Unknown Date
News Articles

Cooper Hospital Open in City Since 1877

Camden Courier-Post - May 19, 1964 By C. William Duncan Cooper Hospital was incorporated the latter part of 1875, under the name of "The Camden Hospital," changed to The Cooper Hospital in 1877. The hospital actually opened August 11, 1887.

·5 min read
Modern Lumber and Woodworking Co. advertisement, 226 N. 38th Street
News Articles

Modern Lumber and Woodworking Co.

A May 1964 Camden Courier-Post advertisement in which Modern Lumber and Woodworking Co. of 226 N. 38th Street congratulates New Jersey on its 300th anniversary and announces a new retail division in Berlin, N.J.

·2 min read
CH Corson Found Dead- 1964-05-15
News Articles

C. H. Corson, 62, Found Dead in GOP Club

Camden Courier-Post - May 16, 1964 C. Hobart Corson , 62, of 117 N. 23rd st. , former president of the Ninth Ward Republican Club , was found dead yesterday on the second floor of the club's headquarters on Broadway near Royden st .

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Fire Captain Is Promoted
News Articles

Fire Captain Is Promoted

Camden Fire Captain Harold H. Pike was promoted to district fire chief on April 30, 1964, sworn in at City Hall by City Clerk Odorisio before Public Safety Director Kauffman, Fire Chief Edward R. MacDowell, and acting Deputy Chief Edward Michalak.

·1 min read
210 South 32nd Street, Camden Courier-Post, January 17, 1964
News Articles

Freidel

A Camden Courier-Post death notice for Frances Nicholas Freidel, 76, widow of Harry Freidel of 210 South 32nd Street, who died January 17, 1964.

·1 min read
Giuseppe De Luca obituary, 603 Avon Street, Camden Courier-Post, January 8, 1964
News Articles

Giuseppe De Luca — 603 Avon Street

Obituary for Giuseppe De Luca, 75, of 603 Avon Street, a native of Italy and 44-year Camden resident, retired RCA maintenance man and uncle of Camden County register of deeds Joseph De Luca.

·1 min read
News Articles

V. Raczykowski Dies at 78

Camden Courier-Post - January 1964 Vincent Raczykowski, 78, founder and owner of the Newport Bottling Works, 1101 Morton Street, died Wednesday in West Jersey Hospital.

·1 min read
Edwin S. Wirtz, Camden Courier-Post, November 28, 1963
News Articles

Dinner Set For Retired Fire Capt.

A testimonial dinner for retired Camden City Fire Marshal Maurice F. O'Brien was set for Kenney's in Camden; Edwin Wirtz, John Moore and John Gaffney assisted with arrangements.

·1 min read