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!

News Articles

Checked and Double-Checked

A political gossip column on New Jersey Republican and Democratic maneuvering ahead of the 1938 elections, including former U.S. Senator W. Warren Barbour's bid for renomination and speculation over county appointments and the 1939 Camden City Commission race.

·2 min read
News Articles

Vacuum Cleaner Sale Sends Seller to Cell

Leonard Hauser of 218 North 8th Street was arrested on $1,000 bail in February 1938 on fraud charges after taking Mrs. Mary Kirby's old vacuum cleaner in exchange for a new one, then failing to return either when the new machine proved defective.

·1 min read
News Articles

City Bureaus Keep Costs Within Budget for 1937

Brunner Lauds Rulers for $40,000 Saving by Co-operation in Offices $302,000 IS VOTED ON STREET BONDS All departments of the city government were operated within the budget appropriations during 1937 and the city's saving, as a result, was $40,000, Mayor George E. Brunner announced yesterday.

·4 min read
Morris-Foulk-1938-02-11
News Articles

Broadcast in Afternoon

Homemakers Off Air 4th Annual Child Welfare Institute Being Planned for April Will Hold 4 Classes The desire to carry on toward the goal envisioned by founders of the Parent-Teacher Association will be emphasized throughout the country in honor of the 41st anniversary of the National Congress of Parents and Teachers.

·8 min read
News Articles

V.F.W. Plans Ball on Armistice Night

Report of the February 4, 1938 Camden County Council meeting of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, which set the fourth annual military ball for Armistice night and pressed a county-wide membership drive; Howard Bean served as publicity officer of Corp. Mathews-Purnell Post No. 518.

·8 min read
News Articles

Cooperation in City Cleanup Facilitates Rubbish Collection

Separation of Refuse By Householders Permits Use of Ashes for Street Repairs and Fill Employees to Return Accommodation This is the fifth in a series of articles showing how co-operation by Camden citizens in ash and garbage collection can save money for the city.

·3 min read
News Articles

14th Ward Women Dine Mrs. Garrity Tonight

The Women's Independent Republican Association, of the Fourteenth Ward, is giving an informal dinner at 8 o'clock tonight in honor of Mrs. Marion E. Garrity, committeewoman, and president of the association, at the Red Hill Inn.

·1 min read
News Articles

11 Air Passengers Get Landing Thrill

Tail Wheel of Plane Collapses at Central Airport; Nobody Injured Eleven passengers on a Transcontinental and Western Air Transport plane got an unexpected thrill at the end of their air journey, when the "tail wheel" collapsed during the landing at Central Airport .

·1 min read
News Articles

Boy Raffles' Aide Is Sent to Prison

James Scavetta was sentenced to prison for participating in one of 22 suburban robberies engineered by Charles Lynch of 748 Carman Street, a prep-school student who turned burglar to fund his education.

·1 min read