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!

Thanksgiving Turkey - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Annual Turkey Dinner

Camden Courier-Post - February 14, 1936 The annual turkey dinner, given by the Camden City auxiliary to the West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital , will take place this Thursday evening, in the First Presbyterian Church , Fifth and Penn streets .

·1 min read
News Articles

Commission Kills Circular Ordinance

Measure to Limit Size and Fix Fees Protested at Noisy Hearing The ordinance approved on first reading January 29 amending the present law regulating the distribution of circulars was voted down by the· city commission on second reading yesterday, after a public hearing.

·3 min read
Police Investigation - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Shots Halt Flight After Car Hits Cop

Camden Courier-post - February 11, 1936 Four men were arrested amid revolver shots after a Camden policeman was knocked down by a police car during a raid yesterday afternoon.

·2 min read
News Articles

Meal Causes Arrest of ‘Tommy’ Moreland

Arrested early yesterday when he refused to pay a 50-cent check in a restaurant on Kaighn Avenue near Broadway, “Tommy” Moreland, of 1616 Broadway, was arraigned in police court and released with a suspended sentence.

·1 min read
News Articles

W.P.A.'s Economy of Increasing Wages

Camden Courier-Post - February 11, 1936 To the Editor: Sir - I recently read in your paper that W.P.A. had gone in for economy and that 17 admitted efficient employees had been dismissed.

·1 min read
News Articles

City Auxiliary to Meet

Camden Courier-Post - February 8, 1936 Members of the Camden City Auxiliary of West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital will meet Tuesday at 11 o'clock to make surgical dressings in the Charles A. Reynolds Nurses Hall.

·1 min read
News Articles

Camden High Girls to Push Campaign for 'Play Streets'

Members of Health Class Urge Areas to Cut Down Juvenile Delinquency MRS. KOBUS' AID SOUGHT By E. CECILIA CUMMINGS Camden High School senior girls in 12th year health classes recommend play streets, especially in South Camden, as a preventive measure for juvenile delinquency.

·3 min read
News Articles

Hartmann Names Dr. Baker Public Works Staff Physician

Civil Service Commission Asked to Approve $1500 Job ACTION DECLARED ECONOMY MOVE The State Civil Service Commission has been requested to authorize appointment of a staff physician for the Camden City department of public works at an annual salary of $1500, and Dr. Maurice E. Baker has been named to the post on an ad interim appointment by Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, Jr. Dr. Baker, a Democrat, was a candidate for city commissioner last May on the New Deal-Non Partisan ticket, which elected Hartmann and Commissioners Mary W. Kobus and George E. Brunner .

·2 min read
News Articles

Sharp Pupils Given Attendance Prizes

Kindergarten, first-grade and February graduating pupils of the H. C. Sharp School at Thirty-second Street and Hayes Avenue received certificates in February 1936 for perfect attendance since the school year opened, along with more than a hundred other pupils.

·2 min read