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!

Newspaper Stock Photo
News Articles

Courier-Post - November 25, 1955

Sage Russell , a native of Camden and former employee of the city's electrical bureau , generously provided this nearly complete edition of the Courier-Post . The paper is intact, with the exception of four missing pages: 7, 8, 9, and 10.

·1 min read
News Articles

Police Drive On Sunday Sales Here

Merchant Vows He'll Open Store Despite Ban Police said today they would "crack down" on any store which attempts to open Sunday for the sale of general merchandise in violation of the city's 49-year-old "blue laws." The threat of police action was aimed at the Windsor Fifth Avenue Store at 11th Street and Wright Avenue , where the manager, Joseph E. Butler, 55, of S. Rose Lane, Berlin, was arrested last Sunday.

·2 min read
Fruit Display - Stock Photo
News Articles

Merchants Laud Crackdown on Street Peddlers

Nuisance Eliminated, They Say, Praising Action by Police Camden City's police crackdown on the illegal operations of pretzel vendors and other type peddlers in the mid-city business area was hailed today by the merchants.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post, September 29, 1955 - Louis G. Engel Jr., Mechanical Engineer
News Articles

Louis G. Engel, Jr., Mechanical Engineer

Obituary for Louis G. Engel, Jr., 27, a Drexel-trained mechanical engineer and former Camden-area resident killed in a private plane crash near Akron, Ohio, in September 1955. Camden Courier-Post, September 29, 1955.

·1 min read
Boxing Stock Photo
News Articles

Camden Reached Peak in Boxing in 1919-20

Standout Performers Appeared in Bouts Held at Armory Camden has had its ups and downs in the boxing game, but probably reached its peak so far as performers are concerned when bouts were held at the Haddon Avenue Armory during 1919-20.

·4 min read
Drunk driving charges dismissed — Camden Courier-Post, May 20, 1955
News Articles

Drunk Driving Charges Dismissed

Drunken driving charges against Edward Dickerson of Barrington were dismissed after a physician testified he was fit to drive when arrested on complaint of John R. Frett of 1236 North 29th Street, following a bumper collision at 4th and Penn Streets.

·1 min read
Gone But Not Forgotten
News Articles

Gone But Not Forgotten

A follow-up on the condemned junkyard at 26th Street and Pierce Avenue, owned by Michael Mazzilli, found the structure demolished but its ruins still strewn about.

·1 min read
William W. Dowdney death notice, 1955
News Articles

William W. Dowdney

Obituary for William W. Dowdney, 64, of 414 Carteret Street, a World War I veteran and 23-year RCA Victor employee. Burial in Arlington Cemetery, Pennsauken.

·1 min read
$1313 Seized In Raid Is Returned — Wallace Roman, 1041 Diamond Street — Camden Courier-Post, January 4, 1955
News Articles

$1313 Seized In Raid Is Returned

A Camden County Court jury ruled that Wallace Roman of 1041 Diamond Street was entitled to recover $1,313 seized from him during a 1952 Lawnside gambling raid.

·1 min read