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 16

800-804 Chestnut Street - 2003-06-15
People

Edward Schlorer

Edward Schlorer was born in Baden, Germany, in 1860. He came to Camden in 1889 to join his younger brother, Adam Schlorer , who had established a meat business at Second and Arch Streets .

·1 min read
John Anthony Smith
People

John Anthony Smith

John Anthony Smith worked part-time at Mister Meat, a butcher shop at Federal Street and Route 130 , for many years. Known locally as a kind man with a serious drinking problem, he had no permanent address.

·1 min read
The Rio Bar, aka ”Connie's Corner” or "Jimmy's Tavern" - September 22, 2003
Bars and Clubs

Rio Bar

August W. "Augie" Oswald Jr. was the licensee for the bar at 1000 North 27th Street in 1939. He was born in Pennsylvania and moved with his family to Cramer Hill when he was young.

·2 min read
People

Edward A. Preisendanz

Edward Adam Preisendanz was the son of Rudolph and Annie Preisendanz and was born in Camden, New Jersey, on November 14, 1883.

·3 min read
Intersection of Dauphin Street and Division Street — July 10, 2004
Streets

Dauphin Street

Dauphin Street runs south from Line Street across Pine Street to Division Street, between South 4th and South 5th Streets in South Camden. Originally called Kaighn Street, it was renamed in January 1882.

·2 min read
1906-Sanborn-Map-Vol2-Sheet12
Streets

Wagner Court

Wagner Court, also called Wagner's Court, was a small dead-end alley running west from 713 South 4th Street in Camden, New Jersey, gone by the 1940s.

·1 min read
Carter's Place — 1906 Sanborn Map
Streets

Carter's Place

Carter's Place, also known as Carter's Alley and Carter Alley, runs west from North 4th Street to what at one time had been Newkirk Place. The alley likely received its name from the Carter family, prominent Camden landowners.

·2 min read
Corner building with green-trimmed storefront at Sheridan and Pershing Streets
Streets

Pershing Street

Pershing Street runs north to south just west of Norris Street, split by the PATCO tracks. It was originally German Street until the name changed during World War I.

·6 min read
John Martin Schreiber
People

John Martin Schreiber

John Martin Schreiber, better known as Martin Schrieber, moved to New Jersey in 1903 to work for the Public Service Corporation, the state's largest public transit company and an early predecessor of today's Transport of New Jersey.

·1 min read
Cohn Alley, October 2005
Streets

Cohn Alley

Cohn Alley is named after Edward N. Cohn, a prominent figure in Camden's real estate and construction circles during the 1880s and 1890s. The alley runs east from Haddon Avenue, between Kaighn and Liberty Streets, and never had any formal addresses.

·1 min read
Clover Street map, Camden NJ
Streets

Clover Street

Clover Street is a one-block street running from Sycamore Street to Kaighn Avenue, parallel to South 8th Street.

·2 min read