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!

Recently added — page 191

Board No. 11 Calls 7 Men for Draft, Camden Courier-Post, July 24, 1941 (Leonard Auslander)
News Articles

Board No. 11 Calls 7 Men for Draft

Local Board No. 11 ordered seven men to report for Army induction on July 30, 1941, including John E. Wiley of 1061 Diamond Street and Leonard Auslander of Magnolia Avenue.

·1 min read
Thieves Syphon Gas From Parked Autos, Camden Courier-Post, July 23, 1941
News Articles

Thieves Syphon Gas From Parked Autos

Camden Courier-Post, July 23, 1941: Detective Lieut. Samuel Johnson warns motorists of gasoline thieves; six garages behind the Liberty Bottling Company at 1135 Liberty Street were broken into.

·1 min read
Newspaper death notice headed LOUIS WATSON, funeral services announced for Thursday
News Articles

Louis Watson

Death notices for Louis Watson of 904 South Ninth Street, printed in the Camden Courier-Post on July 22 and 23, 1941.

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Courier-Post, July 22, 1941: Camden Man Held as Drunken Driver, John Czetyrka of 1176 Morton Street
News Articles

Camden Man Held as Drunken Driver

A Police Court hearing for John Czetyrka, 48, of 1176 Morton Street, charged with drunken driving after an accident on Ninth Street near Fairmount Street, was held over so the other driver could be present to identify him.

·1 min read
Clipping "2 Bandits Get $20 From Gas Station", Camden Courier-Post, July 5, 1941.
News Articles

2 Bandits Get $20 From Gas Station

Two masked bandits, one armed, held up a gasoline station at Mt. Ephraim and Ferry Avenues and fled with $20. Attendant James Ritter, 21, of 531 Woodland Avenue, told police he was closing up when they appeared.

·1 min read
Leon Todd Open for Inspection
News Articles

Open for Inspection

Camden Courier-Post - July 5, 1941 Sunday 2 to 5 185 Carlisle Rd., Audubon This ideal 6 rm. and bath bungalow, oil heat, garage can be purchased for………..$4500 Easily Financed Leon E. Todd , Inc 2623 Westfield , Camden 8400 This ideal 6 rm.

·1 min read
Caulking and Weatherstripping - A. Jacobs Co. advertisement
News Articles

Caulking & Weatherstripping

A July 1941 Camden Courier-Post advertisement for the A. Jacobs Co. of 313 North 37th Street, Camden, offering metal weatherstripping, caulking, and jobbing on easy terms.

·1 min read
Historical Accounts

Playground Planned

To the Editor: I am, happy to inform mothers and fathers of the Sixth Ward that Commissioner Mary W. Kobus has assured me a playground is being planned for children of this ward, realizing their danger playing in the streets.

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Politics - Elephant and Donkey - Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Happenings in Washington

by Charles A. Wolverton Separate Air Force Introduction by Senator McCarran of a bill to create an independent air force co-ordinate with the Army and Navy as arms of defense, has served to revive a long and bitter controversy dating back to the stirring days of General William Mitchell, former head of the Army Air Corps.

·4 min read
Courier-Post clipping, July 4, 1941: 4-Month Sentence for Number Writer, on Joseph Wallace's lottery conviction
News Articles

4-Month Sentence for Number Writer

Joseph Wallace of Merchantville was sentenced to four months in the county jail after pleading guilty to engaging in a lottery, having been arrested by county detectives at Thirty-fourth and Federal streets with numbers slips in his pockets. Judge Clifford A. Baldwin disputed defense attorney Carl Kisselman's claim that Wallace had been in the numbers business only two weeks.

·1 min read