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

Camden Youth Held in Army Pistol Theft

Carl Weber, 21, of 815 Birch Street, was arrested by the FBI for larceny of a .45 caliber pistol from the 157th Field Artillery Armory. He implicated Martin J. Corbert, who was arrested by U.S. Marshall Bernard J. Tracy.

·1 min read
Handcuffs Stock Photo
News Articles

Use of 'Cheaters' Fails to Deceive Judge's Memory

Camden Courier-Post - February 1, 1938 The changeable eyesight of chronic offenders doesn't fool Police Judge Gene R. Mariano one bit. Two men arrested as drunk and disorderly tried It In police court today but didn't get to first base.

·1 min read
News Articles

G. O. P. To Hear Smullen

Camden Courier-Post - February 1, 1938 Kenneth Smullen, physical director at the Camden Y. M. C. A. will be the guest speaker at the meeting of the Twelfth Ward Republican Club , 2709 Westfield Avenue , tonight.

·1 min read
News Articles

Noted Rabbi Speaks in Camden Tonight

Rabbi Israel Goldstein of New York, president of the Jewish National Fund of America, was to speak at a mass meeting at the Hotel Walt Whitman celebrating the fund's 35th anniversary, preceded by a dinner given by members of Camden's Jewish community.

·2 min read
Rose Louise Wishart, Mrs. John Ranson Lowther, Camden Courier-Post, February 1, 1938
News Articles

Mrs. John Ranson Lowther

Rose Louise Wishart, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wishart of 607 Carman Street, married John Ranson Lowther on January 12, 1938 at West Collingswood.

·1 min read
News Articles

Carl Weiwadel

Obituary of Carl Weiwadel, 45, of 138 North Twenty-second Street, a Spanish-American and Philippine Wars veteran and member of VFW Post 980 who died at Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
V.F.W. Will Initiate Cootie Class Tomorrow — Camden Courier-Post, January 26, 1938
News Articles

V.F.W. Will Initiate Cootie Class Tomorrow

Chigger Pup Tent No. 7, the Camden branch of the Military Order of the Cootie, prepared to initiate a class of 18 V.F.W. candidates in January 1938; Howard Bean served as an officer of the branch.

·1 min read
12th-Ward-GOP-Backs-Selection-of-Woodruff-1938-01-26-p1
News Articles

12th Ward G.O.P. Backs Selection of Woodruff

The Twelfth Ward Republican Club last night passed unanimously a motion to endorse the action of Hanna in advocating election of former Senator Albert S. Woodruff as a member of the Delaware River Joint Commission.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post, January 25, 1938, U. of P. Graduates Meet Here To Form Newest Alumni Body
News Articles

U. of P. Graduates Meet Here To Form Newest Alumni Body

Judge Clifford A. Baldwin, designated by Thomas S. Gates, president of the university, to head Camden activities in connection with the bicentennial in 1940, presided at the meeting. It took the informality of a smoker, then developed into the serious purpose of bringing the 800 Penn alumni in Camden county into a group that eventually should form one of the largest alumni clubs anywhere in America.

·4 min read
South Camden Civic Association - Camden Courier-Post, January 22, 1938
News Articles

Civic Group Backs Alliance Aid Bill

A January 1938 Camden Courier-Post report on the South Camden Civic Association — a predominantly Polish-American group in Whitman Park — backing the Workers' Alliance relief bill.

·1 min read