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 141

Obituary clipping for Mrs. Ada Dawson
News Articles

Mrs. Ada Dawson

Obituary for Mrs. Ada Dawson, 81, born in England, who died in Cooper Hospital in March 1957 after living seven years with her daughter, Mrs. Mary Butch, at 345 Winslow Street; services at the Frank J. Leonard Funeral Home, 1451 Broadway.

·1 min read
Camden Fire Alarms list, Camden Courier-Post, March 26, 1957.
News Articles

Camden Fire Alarms

Courier-Post list of Camden fire alarms from midnight Sunday to midnight Monday, including fires on Stevens and Benson Streets, a rubbish fire on North 3rd Street and an auto fire at 4th and Viola Streets.

·1 min read
Obituary of Walter W. Johnson, 88, former Camden Republican leader, March 26, 1957
News Articles

Walter W. Johnson

Obituary of Walter W. Johnson, 88, a lifelong Camden resident who lived at 415 Penn Street with his son. Former Republican leader of the Seventh Ward, Freeholder from 1911 to 1913 and chief clerk of the Highway Department.

·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
Newspaper obituary headed "Miss Katharine Murphy", 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.

·1 min read
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
Save Man, 88, In Blaze
News Articles

Save Man, 88, In S. Camden Home Blaze

A neighbor who ran several blocks Friday night when she saw smoke and flames brought firemen to rescue Samuel Liberetti, 88, of 606 Avon Street, near West and Beckett Streets. Firemen of Engine Co. 1 wearing oxygen masks found him semi-conscious in the cellar, and he was treated at Cooper Hospital for smoke inhalation.

·1 min read
Mrs. Anna Elbertson
News Articles

Mrs. Anna Elbertson

A January 1957 death notice for Mrs. Anna E. Elbertson of 917 North 4th Street, a native of Blackwood and a member of the North Baptist Church.

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Notice of Application to transfer the liquor license of Marty's Olde Tappe House, 1956
News Articles

Notice of Application

A December 1956 legal notice of application to transfer plenary retail consumption license #C-83 for Marty's Olde Tappe House at 1990 Federal Street from Martin Segal to Joseph E. Seigle.

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News Articles

Armed Robber Changes Mind

John Hamlett of 800 Van Hook Street reported that a man with a revolver sat in his parked car, then laughed and left without robbing him.

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Camden Courier-Post, December 11, 1956 — Cooper Hospital cases, David Lenher of 290 Ablett Village
News Articles

Hospital Cases

Cooper Hospital cases from December 1956, including David Lenher, 21, of 290 Ablett Village, treated for a dog bite. Camden Courier-Post, December 11, 1956.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, December 11, 1956 — John Melfi Sr. obituary, 24 Ablett Village
News Articles

John Melfi Sr.

Obituary of John Melfi Sr., 74, of 24 Ablett Village, Camden — born in Italy, Camden resident for 42 years, maintenance man for Eavenson and Levering. Camden Courier-Post, December 11, 1956.

·1 min read