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!

Jewish Exponent article "Rabbi Levinthal Married" about a wedding held at the home of Rabbi Nathan Riff of Camden
News Articles

Rabbi Levinthal Married

The marriage of Rabbi B. L. Levinthal to Mrs. Sarah Samson, of Brooklyn, took place last Tuesday evening at the home of Rabbi Nathan Riff, of Camden, a personal friend of Rabbi Levinthal.

·1 min read
News Articles

Miss Wyzykowski Wed to Albert J. Gawronski

A September 1935 Camden Courier-Post notice of the marriage of Leonora Marie Wyzykowski and Albert J. Gawronski at St. Joseph's Polish Catholic Church, Tenth and Liberty Streets, Camden.

·1 min read
Camdenites Test Shiny New Trackless Trolleys - 1935-09-02
News Articles

Camdenites Test Shiny New Trackless Trolleys

Camden Courier-Post - September 3, 1935 Trackless Trolley Service is Started Fire Breaks Out in New Vehicle on Its First Run Camden's antiquated trolley cars were replaced yesterday by new trackless trolleys.

·2 min read
News Articles

Youthful Bandit Stages Quiet Holdup at Broadway Drug Store; Gets $50

Nearby Customer Eats Ice Cream as Clerk Yields Cash Victim Reports Robber Draws Object like Pistol, Demands Money Disappears Quickly The Nevins Drug Company, 1124 Broadway was robbed of $50 Saturday by a youthful bandit who forced a clerk to hand over the contents of the register while a customer unsuspectingly sat in a booth a few feet away.

·1 min read
Youth Races Death to See Mother Here — Camden Courier-Post, August 31, 1935
News Articles

Youth Races Death to See Mother Here

Edward J. Staepel, 19, of 1033 North Twenty-third Street made a 3,000-mile trip from a C.C.C. Camp in Washington State to reach Cooper Hospital, where his mother lay near death from a fractured skull.

·1 min read
So. Camden Outfit Socks St. Joseph's - Camden Courier-Post, August 29, 1935
News Articles

So. Camden Outfit Socks St. Joseph's

An August 29, 1935 Camden Courier-Post report on the Camden Collegians clinching the Brunner Twilight League National Division first-half title with a 14–3 win over St. Joseph's; Ott Laxton is briefly noted.

·2 min read
Lottery and Gambling - Stock Photo
News Articles

Arrest of Six Links Numbers And Fake Cash

Men Nabbed Here Believed to Be Members of Ring A tie-up between a huge counterfeiting ring and a gambling syndicate backing the "numbers" was believed unearthed by Camden police and Federal authorities following the arrest here yesterday of six colored men on charges of attempting to pass bogus money.

·3 min read
News Articles

Grand Jury Clears Number Suspects

Two men alleged by city and county authorities to have succeeded the Klosterman brothers in controlling the Camden numbers racket last Spring, were exonerated by the Camden county grand jury.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post, April 29, 1935 — Two Camden men injured in auto collision
News Articles

Two Camden Men Injured in Auto Collision

John Kroszewski of 1485 South Tenth Street and driver Stanley Wrotny were treated for bruises after their car overturned in a collision with a truck on Crescent Boulevard in West Collingswood Heights.

·1 min read