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!

Frederick Geissler, Ex-Councilman, Dies, 1941
News Articles

Frederick Geissler, Ex-Councilman, Dies

Former Camden Councilman Frederick Geissler, 67, died after a six-month illness at his home at 930 North 24th Street. He served as justice of the peace and was a lifelong Republican and member of Mozart Lodge No. 121.

·1 min read
38 South 32nd Street, Camden Courier-Post, April 5, 1941
News Articles

Fire Capt. Spencer Temporarily Retired

Public Safety Commissioner Mary W. Kobus placed Junior Fire Captain William P. Spencer of 38 South Thirty-second Street on temporary retirement at half pay in April 1941 after illness left him unable to work.

·1 min read
Camden NJ - 1941 - Herbert Wessel
Parkside

(Video) Haddon Avenue, Camden, 1941

A video about Camden NJ in 1941. The video is primarily in the Parkside section of Camden, on the 1200 block of Haddon Avenue . The video was recorded by Herbert Wessel.

·1 min read
Mrs. Marie Rourke
News Articles

Mrs. Marie Rourke

Obituary of Mrs. Marie Rourke, 77, widow of Eugene Rourke, who died at the home of her son Eugene F. Rourke, 801 Morgan Boulevard, in March 1941.

·1 min read
Four persons were injured last night when the automobile in which they were riding jumped a curb and crashed into a brick building owned by the RCA Manufacturing Company at River avenue and State street.
News Articles

4 Injured As Auto Runs into Building

Camden Courier-Post - January 15, 1941 Four persons were injured last night when the automobile in which they were riding jumped a curb and crashed into a brick building owned by the RCA Manufacturing Company at River avenue and State street .

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Tug Blast Averted by Rookie Fireman
News Articles

Tug Blast Averted by Rookie Fireman

Rookie Camden fireman John Gryckiewicz, five weeks on the job, pulled a burning rope from around a 50-gallon gasoline drum aboard the tug Pacific at the American Dredging Company docks in December 1940, preventing an explosion.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Mrs. Kobus to Ask More Cops, Firemen for City Next Year
News Articles

Mrs. Kobus to Ask More Cops, Firemen for City Next Year

Camden Public Safety Commissioner Mary W. Kobus announced in December 1940 that her appointment of 22 patrolmen and 10 firemen had restored the public safety department to 1938 strength, and said she would seek money for more officers because of defense needs; John Gryckiewicz of 810 North Front Street was among the fire appointees.

·3 min read
And Here's His Primer on Soldiering — Camden Courier-Post, November 26, 1940
News Articles

And Here's His Primer on Soldiering

Arthur F. Ballinghoff, 23, of 2950 Cramer Street was photographed receiving his copy of U.S. Army training instructions at Fort Dix, heading the line among Camden's first draftees.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Mrs. Kobus Names 3 Cops, 4 Firemen
News Articles

Mrs. Kobus Names 3 Cops, 4 Firemen

Commissioner Mary W. Kobus announced the appointment of three Camden policemen and four firemen in November 1940; among the new firefighters was John Gryckiewicz of 810 North Front Street.

·2 min read
Parks funeral notice — Elizabeth McBlain, 2407 Howell Street, November 2, 1940
News Articles

Elizabeth McBlain

Funeral notice for Elizabeth McBlain, wife of the late Robert Parks, from 2407 Howell Street, November 2, 1940.

·1 min read
Billiard Room Owner Held in Gaming Raid — Camden Courier-Post, October 15, 1940
News Articles

Billiard Room Owner Held in Gaming Raid

Frank Manfredi, proprietor of a billiard parlor at 1146 South Third Street and a former Camden prizefighter known as Freddie Mack, was fined $100 for operation of a gaming house after a dice-game raid.

·1 min read