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!

1957 12th Ward Athletic Association Team Photo
Baseball

12th Ward Athletic Association

1957 Baseball Team Photo Top Row: Harry Babcock, Meno { Skippy } Myers, Lorne Wyman, Coach Howard Rowe, Eddie Solly, Jimmy Jefferson, unknown, but his nickname was Cookie {Catcher} Middle Row: Bob Pollock, Robert Daniels, unknown, Roy Rogers, unknown Bottom Row (left to right): unknown, Earl Crim, Harry Watson

·1 min read
Hospital Cases, Cooper Hospital, Camden Courier-Post, September 20, 1957
News Articles

Hospital Cases

Cooper Hospital admissions, September 20, 1957, including Carol Foster, 7, of 1247 Cambridge Street, admitted for a dog bite.

·1 min read
Camden fire alarms clipping, Camden Courier-Post, September 20, 1957
News Articles

Camden Fire Alarms

Camden fire alarms logged from midnight Wednesday to midnight Thursday, September 1957, including a fire at 35 Leonard Avenue and one at 215-21 Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
News Articles

Firemen Here Get Advanced First Aid Course

More than 40 members of the Camden Fire Department — Rescue Squad, Headquarters, Truck and Engine company men housed at fire headquarters — completed the Red Cross advanced first aid course. Robert Olesiewicz was among the graduates.

·2 min read
F. W. Morse, 77, Dies; Ex-School Employe — Camden Courier-Post, June 3, 1957
News Articles

F. W. Morse, 77, Dies; Ex-School Employe

Frederick W. Morse, 77, a Camden Board of Education employee from 1919 to 1954, died at his home, 200 North 28th Street, where he had lived for 76 years. Survived by his wife Mary, a daughter, a grandson, and two great-grandchildren.

·1 min read
Samuel Liberati death notice, 606 Avon Street, Camden Courier-Post, May 24, 1957
News Articles

Samuel Liberati — 606 Avon Street

Death notice for Samuel Liberati, 88, of 606 Avon Street, husband of the late Anna; funeral at Troncone Funeral Home with Mass at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, burial at Calvary Cemetery.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, May 15, 1957
News Articles

Jury Action Set Today in Fraud Trial

The embezzlement trial of Camden attorney Charles F. Murray was expected to reach a jury, after testimony from his former secretary Mrs. Bernice Brown of 614 South 3rd Street.

·1 min read
Cephas Starts Boxing Career
News Articles

Cephas Starts Boxing Career

Camden Courier-Post - May 14, 1957 Billy Cephas, former Haddonfield High School baseball and football star, makes his debut tonight as a professional boxer. He is scheduled to meet Billy Boswell, Newark, in a four rounder at Paterson.

·1 min read
Vincent DiPatri
News Articles

Vincent DiPatri

Vincent DiPatri, 69, who lived 40 years at 1809 South 4th Street and retired as a PRSL maintenance-of-way worker after 36 years, died in March 1957.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, March 26, 1957
News Articles

Miss Katharine Murphy

Obituary for Miss Katherine Murphy, 71, a lifelong Camden resident and member of the Rosary Society of St. Joseph's R. C. Church and the 12th Ward Democratic Club, whose niece Mrs. Bette Murray lived at 237 South 35th Street.

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Rae B. Keene obituary — Camden Courier-Post, March 26, 1957
News Articles

Rae B. Keene

Obituary for Rae B. Keene, 71, a retired janitor who formerly lived at 348 Hillside Avenue in East Camden and was a member of the Calvary Bible Protestant Church.

·1 min read