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 175

Camden City Flier Now Listed Killed — Camden Courier-Post, July 16, 1945
News Articles

Camden City Flier Now Listed Killed

A July 16, 1945 Camden Courier-Post report that Camden flier Lt. John H. Moses, earlier reported missing, was now listed as killed, and that Technical Sergeant Benjamin W. Dyl of Woodlynne had died of wounds on February 5 in a German prison camp, after being wounded and captured while leading a four-man reconnaissance patrol.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Anthony J. Lauria discharged", Camden Courier-Post, June 5, 1945
News Articles

Anthony J. Lauria Discharged

Anthony J. Lauria of 1008 Locust Street was honorably discharged from the Army after service with the engineer corps in Iceland and the signal corps in England, Normandy, France and Germany.

·1 min read
Camden Evening Courier, March 23, 1945: De Sanctis Dies in Parked Car, Pal Wounded, with a photo of the bullet-riddled car
News Articles

De Sanctis Dies in Parked Car, Pal Wounded

Romeo DeSanctis, star witness against suspects in the Casablanca roadhouse holdup, was shot dead in a parked car on Mt. Ephraim Avenue near Kaighn hours after testifying before the grand jury; his companion Leon Grenkwicz was critically wounded.

·1 min read
Overturned Car Crash- Stock Photo
News Articles

CRASH INJURIES KILL LEGION AIDE';S SON

Lt. Jacques Allen Dies; Newfield Officer Slain in Conflict 1st Lt. Jacques Hartley Allen, 22, son of C. Richard Allen , Camden attorney and past department commander of the American Legion, died Thursday in Camp Pendleton hospital, Oceanside CA, of a disease super-induced from injuries received in an airplane crash during a battle in the South Pacific.

·2 min read
Clipping from The Courier-News - Newspapers.com
News Articles

Sage C. Russell Jr. Wounded

Camden Courier-Post - December 18, 1944 Russell, Sage C. Jr. , private first class, Marine Corps Reserve, Wounded. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sage C. Russell Sr. , 907 N. 19th St. , Camden.

·1 min read
Mrs. George E. Brown, 1944
News Articles

Mrs. George E. Brown

Marriage announcement for Miss Evelyn Ewen, who married the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Brown of 127 North 24th Street in November 1944; the bridegroom was serving in the Naval Reserve as a gunner's mate, third class.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Frank J. Hartmann, Retired, Dies at 91
News Articles

Frank J. Hartmann, Retired, Dies at 91

Obituary of Frank J. Hartmann, Sr., a retired cigar manufacturer who died at his home in West Collingswood at age 91, as printed in the Camden Courier-Post on November 6, 1944.

·1 min read
801 North 27th Street, October 26, 1944
News Articles

Gas Station Looted of Stamps, Radio

Two Camden gas stations were broken into overnight; gas stamps and a table radio were taken from a station at Wilson Boulevard, and Guy Saporita's station at 801 North 27th Street was also forced.

·1 min read
Newspaper paragraph on Pvt. William R. Van Istendal of North Thirty-fifth Street, Camden, serving at Fort Meade, Md.
News Articles

Pvt. William R. Van Istendal

A Camden Courier-Post service note of October 10, 1944 on Pvt. William R. Van Istendal of 1183 North Thirty-fifth Street, who entered the Army in April 1944 and was serving with an armored unit at Fort Meade, Maryland.

·1 min read