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!

Dynamite in Courtroom - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Dynamite Stick Causes Shivers in Courtroom

Reno Evening Gazette - March 14, 1935 CAMDEN NJ, March 14 (AP)- Everyone sighed with relief when Walter Baler, forty-three years old, was given a suspended sentence and left with the evidence.

·1 min read
John Gargano Dies of Pneumonia at 63
News Articles

John Gargano Dies of Pneumonia at 63

John Gargano, 63, of 823 South Fourth Street, secretary of the First Italian Republican League for 25 years, died of pneumonia in February 1935 after a seven-day illness.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, February 9, 1935
News Articles

J. W. Coleman Dies, Once Councilman

John W. Coleman, 87, of 31 North Thirty-fifth Street — a Civil War veteran, former Camden councilman and retired Southwark National Bank assistant cashier — died in February 1935 after 45 years in East Camden.

·1 min read
Box score - Popeye vs. Independent Umpires, Camden Courier-Post
News Articles

Popeye Turns Back Independent Umps

A Camden Courier-Post report (c. 1929–1935) on the Popeye club's 8–4 win over the Independent Umpires' Association, with George Nicktern pitching in the Rhone Twilight League's annual contest. (No firmer date is determinable from the source.)

·1 min read
Arthur "Ott" Laxton - Camden Courier-Post, 1930s
News Articles

Arthur "Ott" Laxton

A 1930s Camden Courier-Post profile of Arthur "Ott" Laxton, a mainstay of the Haddon A.A. baseball club in the Reesman Twilight League, who played second base or shortstop. (Source dates this clipping only to the 1930s.)

·1 min read
Who's Who Among So. Jersey Stars - Arthur Otts Laxton, Camden Courier-Post, 1930s
News Articles

Who's Who Among So. Jersey Stars

Charley Humes profiles Arthur "Otts" Laxton in his "Who's Who Among So. Jersey Stars" column, calling the Camden forward without a peer in local basketball. (Source dates this clipping only to the 1930s.)

·1 min read
Mans Skull Fractured in Crash - 1934-12-15
News Articles

Man's Skull Fractured in Automobile Crash

Camden Courier-Post - December 15, 1934 Injured when his car overturned after a collision at Third and State streets yesterday, William Russell, Jr. , 907 York street , is in Cooper Hospital with a fractured skull.

·1 min read
Girl to Get Cash If Unwed at 21 — Will of Mrs. Katie M. Conner, 2407 Howell Street, November 30, 1934
News Articles

Girl to Get Cash If Unwed at 21

The will of Mrs. Katie M. Conner of 2407 Howell Street left a granddaughter a share of her estate at 25, provided she did not marry before 21.

·1 min read
Taps Sound for Jack Airedale, Canine Mascot of Fire Laddies
News Articles

Taps Sound for Jack Airedale, Canine Mascot of Fire Laddies

Camden firemen and policemen gave Jack, the Airedale mascot of the Headquarters Fire Company at Fifth and Arch Streets, a hero's funeral in November 1934 after he was crushed under the wheels of his own truck. An estimated 3500 people passed his bier, and taps were sounded over his grave at sunset; Arthur Batten was among the honorary bearers.

·2 min read
William Kunitz Dies From Heart Attack — 537 Borton Street, Camden Courier-Post, October 15, 1934
News Articles

William Kunitz Dies From Heart Attack

William Kunitz, 52, a Second Ward Democratic worker and city highway department foreman at 537 Borton Street, died suddenly from a heart attack while standing in his kitchen.

·1 min read
Police Stock Photo
News Articles

Orlando Assumes Charge of Vice War

Camden Evening Courier - September 17, 1934 Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando today dropped all other duties and took personal charge of the drive to rid Camden city and county of vice.

·6 min read
Bandit - Wanted Stock Photo
News Articles

Store Bandits to be Quizzed in Chester on Feitz Murder

Material Witness Will View Suspects Caught by Camden Sleuths BRICKNER QUESTIONED BY COLSEY ON HOLDUP Police Order All Persons Arrested to Face 'Line Up' in Slaying Probe Seven men and women held by Camden as police as material witnesses in the murder of Detective William T. Feitz two weeks ago in an alleged South Camden disorderly house will look over two men arrested in Chester PA after a store holdup here.

·3 min read