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 166

PACC hall dedication - Camden Courier-Post, March 18, 1950
News Articles

Polish American Community Hall Opens Tonight

A March 1950 Camden Courier-Post notice of the banquet opening the Polish American Citizens Club's new $130,000 community hall at Warsaw and Lowell Streets, with Congressman Wolverton and Monsignor Strenski as speakers.

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Courier-Post obituary clipping, Rites Wednesday For Miss Johntra, February 20, 1950
News Articles

Rites Wednesday For Miss Johntra

Services for Miss Anna M. Johntra, 90, of 732 Market Street, who taught in Camden public schools nearly 40 years and was principal of the Linden School from 1905 to 1916.

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Police officers crying due to gas - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Tearful Scene at Detective Bureau

Iowa City, Iowa Press Citizen - February 10, 1950 Camden NJ, February 10 (AP) — Six detectives stood in their headquarters at Camden City Hall with tears streaming down their faces. A great tragedy? A frustrating crime? No, nothing like that.

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Camden Courier-Post clipping, February 2, 1950: Harker appointed to conduct survey for housing unit
News Articles

Harker Appointed To Conduct Survey For Housing Unit

The Camden Housing Authority names engineer William T. Harker to begin surveys for a new low-rent housing project of 800 homes, and approves a newspaper stand at Ablett Village for blind resident Cora Gideon of 588 Berkley Street.

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John T. Cleary, 59, Ex-Jurist, Dies, Camden Courier-Post, January 31, 1950
News Articles

John T. Cleary, 59, Ex-Jurist, Dies

Obituary of John T. Cleary, 59, of 1316 Park Boulevard — former assistant prosecutor and Camden police judge — who died at Philadelphia Naval Hospital after a long illness.

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Obituary of Mrs. Emma E. Johnson, Camden Courier-Post, January 19, 1950
News Articles

Mrs. Emma E. Johnson

Obituary of Mrs. Emma E. Johnson, 77, of 626 Pine Street, Camden, who died in Cooper Hospital; she was the wife of retired Camden fireman Joseph T. Johnson and stepmother of Mrs. Walter Eastlack of Collingswood.

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Obituary headlined Charles Foulon, Ex-Baker, Dies, Camden Courier-Post, January 11, 1950
News Articles

Charles Foulon, Ex-Baker, Dies

Charles Foulon, 74, of 1453 Ormond Avenue, who operated the Foulon bakery in the 500 block of Federal Street for many years, died in West Jersey Hospital in January 1950. The business had been established by his father.

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Newspaper clipping: So. Camden Man Fined In New Year's Raid
News Articles

So. Camden Man Fined In New Year's Raid

Louis Bumbrey, 56, of 906 South Eighth Street, was fined $100 for maintaining a disorderly house and sent to county jail on a charge of possessing untaxed alcohol after a January 1, 1950 raid on a bootblack parlor at 725 Kaighn Avenue.

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