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!

Nicholas Haday
News Articles

Nicholas Haday

Portrait of Nicholas Haday, son of Stephen Haday, proprietor of the grocery at 675 Ferry Avenue, published in the Camden Courier-Post in 1943.

·1 min read
Aviation Cadet Burton L. Pearl
News Articles

Aviation Cadet Burton L. Pearl

Aviation Cadet Burton L. Pearl, son of Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Pearl of 1473 Baird Avenue, graduated from the Army Air Forces Flexible Gunnery School at Fort Myers, Florida after nine months of service.

·1 min read
Mrs. Ruth J. Harring — Camden Courier-Post, July 21, 1943
News Articles

Mrs. Ruth J. Harring

Funeral notice for Mrs. Ruth J. Harring of 973 North Twenty-third Street, who died after a long illness at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, July 20, 1943: Blast Injuries Kill Soldier From Camden
News Articles

Blast Injuries Kill Soldier From Camden

The Camden Courier-Post reports the death of Staff Sgt. Roman Drapinski, 1468 South Tenth Street, killed by a premature dynamite explosion while giving instructions in its handling at Camp Campbell.

·2 min read
Camden Soldier Dies in African Action — Camden Courier-Post, June 19, 1943
News Articles

Camden Soldier Dies in African Action

The Camden Courier-Post reported that the parents of Pvt. Walter J. Koscianski of Bulson Street had been notified by the War Department that their son was killed in North Africa; confirmation came when a V-mail letter sent to him by John Emmel of 905 Sylvan Street was returned marked "Deceased, return to sender."

·1 min read
Hero Dies — George Smith, retired Camden fireman, 228 Ambler Street, Camden Courier-Post, May 22, 1943
News Articles

Hero Dies

Photo and notice of the death of George Smith, a retired Camden fireman, who died after an illness of nearly three years.

·1 min read
Hero Dies — George Smith, retired Camden fireman, 228 Ambler Street, Camden Courier-Post, May 22, 1943
News Articles

Hero Dies

George Smith, retired Camden fireman who died on May 22, 1943 after an illness of nearly three years. Smith and family resided at 228 Ambler Street.

·1 min read
Miss Ethel Waters — Trenton Evening-Times, May 6, 1943
News Articles

Miss Ethel Waters

A brief 1943 funeral notice for Miss Ethel H. Waters, 26, who died in Camden; the six pallbearers — Camden policemen among them, including Howard Bean — carried her to burial in Trenton.

·1 min read
Lozowski's Body Is Returned Here newspaper clipping
News Articles

Lozowski's Body Is Returned Here

The body of Marine Private John Lozowski, 20, killed in a training-flight plane crash at Atlantic Field, N.C., was returned to Camden for burial from St. Joseph's Church.

·1 min read
News Articles

Funeral Tomorrow for Sgt. Dzingoski

A January 1943 Camden Courier-Post notice that Sgt. Gus Dzingoski — the first World War II casualty of St. Joseph's Catholic Church — would be buried with full military honors, with an American Legion ritual in his mother's home and a Solemn High Mass of Requiem at the church.

·2 min read
News Articles

Camden Man Killed with 10 in Air Crash

A January 1943 Camden Courier-Post report that Sgt. Gus Dzingoski, 31, of 1476 Louis Street was one of 11 army men killed when a bomber crashed at White City, Kansas, while returning to its base at Topeka.

·2 min read
Wilson Kayos SAIA In 2nd at Olympia
News Articles

Wilson Kayos SAIA In 2nd at Olympia

Camden Courier Post - January 8, 1943 Sergt. Jackie Wilson, a bomber from Mitchell Field, gave 2000 fans at the Philadelphia Olympia last night a graphic illustration of why Sugar Ray Robinson won't fight.

·2 min read