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!

3404 Rosedale Avenue - 1934-09-13
News Articles

Tenth Arrest Made Here in Numbers Quiz

The arrest of Crawford Smith on numbers-writing charges brought to 10 the number of people apprehended that week in Camden's numbers-racket crackdown, running alongside the investigation into the murder of Detective William T. Feitz Jr.

·4 min read
Randolph W. Rudderow obituary, 1934
News Articles

Randolph W. Rudderow

Obituary for Randolph W. Rudderow, 62, of 461 Carteret Street, a real estate man connected with the office of T. Yorke Smith and an officer of the Broadway M.E. Church.

·1 min read
Uninvited Picket Given Year Term for Having Gun
News Articles

Uninvited Picket Given Year Term for Having Gun

Henry Parks, a Philadelphia strikebreaker who muscled uninvited into the picket line at New York Shipbuilding with a loaded pistol, was sentenced to one to three years in state's prison. Motorcycle Policeman Earl Wright was among the arresting officers.

·3 min read
2-Runaway-Horses-Imperil-Children-1
News Articles

2 Runaway Horses Imperil Children

Gallopers Stage Impromptu Race in South Camden Traffic Scores of children on their way to school were endangered yesterday when two horses hitched to a bakery wagon ran away in South Camden streets, ignoring red traffic lights and shouts of pedestrians and motorists.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post, May 14, 1934 - Some Old Hall Familiars
News Articles

Some Old Hall Familiars

In a 1934 column, Ben Courter recalls the figures who filled Camden's old City Hall as it is torn down — among them Detective "Bill" Schregler and Chief Jimmie Tatem.

·5 min read
Camden Courier-Post, May 12, 1934 — Wible Seeks Post Held by 'Cy' Harris
News Articles

Wible Seeks Post Held by 'Cy' Harris

In the May 1934 Republican primary, John L. Wible ran for Twelfth Ward county committeeman on David Baird Jr.'s "Regular Republican" ticket, seeking to unseat "Cy" Harris, who was running for an eighth term.

·2 min read
Chambers Seeks Nomination - 1934-05-10
News Articles

Chambers Seeks Nomination

Camden Courier-Post - May 10, 1934 Alexander G. Chambers . He seeks nomination as candidate for the Camden County Board of Freeholders in the Sixth ward, where a stirring battle is expected among Republicans on Tuesday.

·1 min read
Cop's Probe Fails to Fix Cause of Poultry Blaze — Bell and Evans warehouse fire near 27th and Pleasant streets, Camden Courier-Post, May 7, 1934
News Articles

Cop's Probe Fails to Fix Cause of Poultry Blaze

A police probe failed to fix the cause of the Bell and Evans poultry warehouse fire near 27th and Pleasant streets, which drove 30 families from their Howell Street homes and killed more than 10,000 chickens in May 1934.

·2 min read