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 170

Notice of Application
News Articles

Notice of Application

A May 1949 statutory notice that Edward Zuby, trading as the Friendly Tavern, had applied for a plenary retail consumption license for 1921 South 4th Street, Camden.

·1 min read
Beverage-Firm-Worker-Fatally-Stricken
News Articles

Beverage Firm Worker Fatally Stricken

Camden Courier Post - May 3, 1949 John A. Herrmann, 52, Bell avenue, Barrington, and employe [sic] of the Camden County Beverage Co., Fillmore and Bulson streets, collapsed and died yesterday while cleaning a vat.

·1 min read
Clipping from Courier-Post - Newspapers.com
News Articles

Mrs. Alice M. Rogers

Camden Courier-Post - May 2, 1949 Mrs. Alice M. Rogers, a clerk at the John Wanamaker store , Philadelphia, and resident at 539 Vine street , died yesterday in Cooper hospital . Mrs. Rogers was a member of Mystic chapter, 148, OES.

·1 min read
William E. Stanton funeral notice with portrait, Trenton Evening Times, April 1, 1949.
News Articles

William E. Stanton

Funeral notice for William E. Stanton, 23, who died after an automobile accident; his wife lived at 336 Viola Street, and the requiem mass was set for Sacred Heart Church, Camden. He served with the Army in Europe and was awarded the Purple Heart.

·1 min read
Pfc. Louis Bontkowski Rites Set Thursday — Camden Courier-Post, March 22, 1949
News Articles

Pfc. Louis Bontkowski Rites Set Thursday

A requiem high Mass for Pfc. Louis Bontkowski of 1191 Liberty Street was set for St. Joseph's R.C. Church, with burial in the veterans plot of St. Joseph's cemetery at Chews Landing and military honors by Laskowski-Wojtkowiak Post 74, American Legion.

·1 min read
Courier-Post column "Life Hereabouts" by Charley Humes, March 19, 1949
News Articles

Life Hereabouts

Charley Humes's "Life Hereabouts" column of March 19, 1949, recalling Camden and Gloucester City's fight days — bouts at the Armory on Haddon Avenue and the ball park at Twelfth and Federal Streets — and the boxers, promoters and referees of the era.

·1 min read
Obituary headlined James McTaggart, Policeman, Dies, Camden Courier-Post, February 9, 1949
News Articles

James McTaggart, Policeman, Dies

Policeman James McTaggart, 54, of 3135 Waldorf Avenue, a World War I veteran appointed to the Camden police force in 1927, died in West Jersey Hospital. He was a brother of the late Policeman John McTaggart, who worked a beat on Broadway from Pine Street to Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
Bandit Gets $30 in Hyde's Cafe - newspaper clipping
News Articles

Bandit Gets $30 in Hyde’s Cafe

Joseph F. Hyde Jr., operator of Hyde's tavern at 1600 South Sixth Street, told Sgt. Earl Wright and Detectives Joseph Schultz and Clifford Del Rossi that an armed masked bandit robbed him of $30.

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News Articles

Obituary of Harry W. Horst

Camden Courier-Post obituary for Harry W. Horst, 75, one of Camden's first hardwood floor contractors, who died January 31, 1949 while visiting his son in Collingswood.

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New officers sworn in, Camden Police Department, January 18, 1949
News Articles

New Officers Sworn In

New Camden police officers including William Bennett of 313 North 11th Street and James J. Large were sworn in and photographed at the signing ceremony in January 1949.

·1 min read
Webster-Will-Join-Forces-With-Georgette-Prince
News Articles

Webster Will Join Forces With Georgette, Prince

Camden Courier Post - November 20, 1948 By TOM RYAN A new boxing triumvirate soon will be formed in Camden, it was learned today. Those involved are Tony Georgette, Joe Webster and Eddie Prince, all Camden residents.

·4 min read