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!

RobertTAbbott-Portrait-a
News Articles

Robert Abbott Dies, Ex Policeman Here

Retired Sergeant, 73, Stricken With Pneumonia at Seashore Home Robert T." Bobby" Abbott , 73, retired Camden police sergeant and brother of William S. Abbott , former member of the Board of Education, died yesterday at West Jersey Hospital after a week's illness of pneumonia.

·1 min read
Miss Genovese Engaged - Camden Courier-Post December 28 1938
News Articles

Miss Genovese Engaged

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Genovese, of 206 Arch Street, announced the engagement of their daughter, Miss Rita Dolores Genovese, to James E. Wright.

·1 min read
Obituary of Joseph Knispel, 2821 Arthur Avenue — Camden Courier-Post, August 3, 1938
News Articles

Joseph Knispel

Obituary for Joseph Knispel, 98, of 2821 Arthur Avenue, Camden, who died on August 2, 1938. Survived by four children and eight grandchildren.

·1 min read
News Articles

Seek Killer of Toll Collector

Camden NJ, July 18 (AP) — New Jersey police scoured the Delaware River waterfront today for two men who shot to death Harry C. Armstrong , 63, a Pennsylvania ferry toll collector, in an attempted holdup Sunday morning.

·1 min read
Mary A Russell Obituary - 1938-07-15
News Articles

Mary A. Russell Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - July 15, 1938 The funeral of Mrs. Mary A. Russell, widow of William W. Russell , who died yesterday, will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Charles H. Murray & Son funeral home at 408 Cooper street .

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, June 25, 1938 — Speakeasy Proprietor Fined After ABC Raid
News Articles

Speakeasy Proprietor Fined After ABC Raid

Joseph S. Waligorski, 27, of 1498 South Tenth street, was fined $200 or 60 days in the county jail yesterday by Police Judge Gene R. Mariano on a charge of maintaining a speakeasy. Waligorsky, who con

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, June 24, 1938 — Speakeasy Charge Follows Store Raid
News Articles

Speakeasy Charge Follows Store Raid

Charged with conducting a speakeasy at the rear of his grocery store, Joseph S. Waligorski, 27, of 1498 South Tenth street, was arrested yesterday in a raid on his place.

·1 min read
Mrs. Louisa Weber obituary, Camden Courier-Post, June 9, 1938
News Articles

Mrs. Louisa Weber

Funeral notice for Mrs. Louisa Weber, widow of William Weber and a pioneer member of the Church of the Holy Name, of 922 North Front Street, a North Camden resident for more than 30 years.

·1 min read
3 Friends Fail To Save Youth Drowned Here - Camden Courier-Post, June 2, 1938
News Articles

3 Friends Fail To Save Youth Drowned Here

Front-page Camden Courier-Post account of the June 1, 1938 drowning of 18-year-old Pasquale Barbalace of 1551 Norris Street in the Delaware River near Petty's Island, while three companions — among them Joseph Piotrowski of 1167 Chase Street — tried in vain to save him.

·2 min read
250-Arrested-in-Raid-On-Show-in-Eagles-Hall-1938-06-01
News Articles

250 Arrested in Raid On Show in Eagles Hall

25 Cops, Detectives Led by Mrs. Kobus Invade 'Smoker' Given by Group; Charged Made of Gambling More than 250 men, most of whom gave Philadelphia addresses, were arrested shortly after 1 a.m. today when a squad of police, led by Commissioner Mary E. Kobus, director of public safety, raided the Eagles Hall , Broadway near Washington street .

·3 min read
John Lester Dyer obituary, Camden Courier-Post, March 23, 1938
News Articles

John Lester Dyer

Obituary for John Lester Dyer, 48, pensioned Camden fireman of 139 North Eleventh Street, who died in West Jersey Hospital; survived by his widow Mrs. Anna Ironfield Dyer and several children.

·1 min read
Snatched Purse, Jailed, Camden Courier-Post, March 22, 1938
News Articles

Snatched Purse, Jailed

George Gibbs, 39, of 311 North 11th Street was sentenced to thirty days in jail for stealing a purse from Mrs. Susie Lovett on Penn Street near Tenth.

·1 min read