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 135

Courier-Post, June 15, 1959: City Boy, 15, Crashes Car, Flees, Caught at No. 9 Firehouse, 27th Street
News Articles

City Boy, 15, Crashes Car, Flees, Caught

A 15-year-old boy who crashed a car into the door of the No. 9 Firehouse on 27th Street near Federal Street and fled was caught a half-block away by Laddermen Phillip B. Stinger and Edward DeHart and a taxi driver.

·1 min read
613 Bailey Street: Mrs. Helen L. Brewin obituary, May 1959
News Articles

Mrs. Helen L. Brewin

Obituary of Mrs. Helen L. Brewin, 64, of 613 Bailey Street, a lifelong Camden resident, Camden Courier-Post, May 1959.

·1 min read
Four-Point-Bar-1959
Historical Accounts

4 Point Bar Advertisement

April 20, 1959 - Banquet Program Advertisement Veteran's Boxing Association, Ring No. 6 Woodlawn 4-3976 4 Point Bar Jumbo Sandwiches: Liquor Store Haddon Avenue & Federal Street, Camden, New Jersey

·1 min read
Bertram D. Zimmerman obituary, 2412 Howell Street, March 7, 1959
News Articles

Bertram D. Zimmerman

Obituary of Bertram D. Zimmerman, 57, of 2412 Howell Street, a stationary fireman at the Camden Courthouse, who died at West Jersey Hospital in March 1959.

·1 min read
Newspaper obituary for Morris Bass, retired operator of the Bass Food Market, of 2630 Baird Boulevard
News Articles

Morris Bass

Obituary for Morris Bass, 65, of 2630 Baird Boulevard, retired operator of the Bass Food Market on Cooper Street, Camden resident for 45 years and member of Ahev Zedak Synagogue.

·1 min read
Samuel B. Harring obituary — Camden Courier-Post, February 19, 1959
News Articles

Samuel B. Harring

Obituary of Samuel B. Harring, 64, of 973 North 23rd Street, a lifelong Camden resident and RCA truck driver; burial at Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro.

·1 min read
Obituary for John G. Dalton of 509 Fairview Street, Camden Courier-Post, December 27, 1958.
News Articles

John G. Dalton

John G. Dalton, 68, of 509 Fairview Street, a retired construction worker and native of Newfoundland who had lived in Camden 45 years, died at his home; a requiem Mass was set for the Sacred Heart Church.

·1 min read
Obituary notice for Joseph Leff of 1605 Park Boulevard, Camden Courier-Post, December 27, 1958.
News Articles

Joseph Leff

Joseph Leff, 74, of 1605 Park Boulevard, founder of the Maxwell Cloak Co. at 502 Liberty Street, died at his home. He was survived by his wife, Anna, three sons and eight grandchildren.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Cleaner Plant Blast Injures Fire Captain, Camden Courier-Post, December 23, 1958
News Articles

Cleaner Plant Blast Injures Fire Captain

Fire Capt. Leonard Garbrecht of Engine Company 3 was hospitalized with head injuries when the door of a dry cleaning tumbler blew off during a fire at the Mechanics Overall Service plant, 2201 S. 8th Street. Camden Courier-Post, December 23, 1958.

·1 min read