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 132

Newspaper obituary for Massimo Di Marco, 77, of 571 Ferry Avenue, Camden Courier-Post, August 16, 1961.
News Articles

Massimo Di Marco — Obituary

Massimo Di Marco, 77, of 571 Ferry Avenue died at Cooper Hospital; a 40-year Camden resident, he owned and operated a shoe repair business.

·1 min read
Obituary "George Shapiro Dies, Was Tavernkeeper", Camden Courier-Post, July 27, 1961.
News Articles

George Shapiro Dies, Was Tavernkeeper

George Shapiro, 58, of 1357 Park Boulevard, operator of a tavern at 402 Federal Street for many years, died in Jefferson Hospital, Philadelphia; burial in Crescent Burial Park, Pennsauken.

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N.J. to Free Killer After 28 Years, Camden Courier-Post, July 18, 1961
News Articles

N.J. to Free Killer After 28 Years

Peter DiVito, convicted of the 1932 gangland killing of Giuseppe Pirelli of 603 Avon Street, is to be paroled after serving 28 years of a life sentence for bootlegging-related murder.

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Legal notice of application for a liquor license at 732 Morgan Blvd., Camden Courier-Post, June 2, 1961
News Articles

Notice of Application

Legal notice in the Camden Courier-Post, June 2, 1961: Martin Ginsburg, trading as Martin's, applies for a Plenary Retail Consumption License for 732 Morgan Blvd., Camden.

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Article "Tetrachloride Fumes Sicken 3 Firemen", Camden Courier-Post, March 4, 1961.
News Articles

Tetrachloride Fumes Sicken 3 Firemen

Three Engine Company 8 hosemen, including Clarence Hawkins of 1570 Park Boulevard, were sickened by fumes after police used a carbon tetrachloride extinguisher on a mattress fire on Walnut Street.

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Ralph Cataudo letterhead, wholesale boneless beef cuts, 1317 and 1318 South Merrimac Road, Camden
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Ralph Cataudo

Letterhead of Ralph Cataudo, wholesale boneless beef, veal, lamb, pork and provisions dealer at 1317 and 1318 South Merrimac Road, Camden, 1961.

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Mrs. Nellie Stenner obituary, Camden Courier-Post, November 16, 1960
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Mrs. Nellie Stenner

Obituary for Mrs. Nellie Stenner, 73, of 2006 Arlington Street, a 55-year Camden resident. Survived by her husband Frank J., a son, three daughters, and ten grandchildren.

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Signal Award Presented to Police Hero - newspaper clipping
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Signal Award Presented to Police Hero

Patrolman Peter Yecco received the Camden Police Department's Distinguished Service Award for a Delaware River rescue; among 16 officers commended was Sergeant Earl Wright.

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Kaighns Ave. Cafe Gets New Owners
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Kaighns Ave. Cafe Gets New Owners

Rabon Mosley and his wife, Willa Mae, of 811 Walnut Street, and their son, Rabon Jr., of 638 South 4th Street, formed Arel Inc. and bought the Green Goose Cafe at 251½ Kaighns Avenue from Diane Braff; they will run it as Ray's Green Goose.

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Obituary for Mrs. Lydia Smith, 412 North 40th Street, July 25, 1960
News Articles

Lydia Smith

Obituary for Mrs. Lydia Smith, 60, of 412 North 40th Street, who died July 24, 1960 after 39 years with the Bell Telephone Co. of Pennsylvania.

·1 min read