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!

Bathing Season Opens at Home for Friendless
News Articles

Children at Camden Home Have Big Time in Wading Pool

Bathing Place, Given by Citizens Officially Opened Four Youthful Charges, Left Motherless, to Return to Father Bathing in the backyard is a privilege of the children of the Camden Home for Friendless Children that is enjoyed by few of the other youngsters in the city.

·2 min read
Mrs. Sophia Julian obituary, Camden Courier-Post, June 30, 1933
News Articles

Mrs. Sophia Julian

Funeral services for Mrs. Sophia Julian, 77, of 1147 Cambridge Street, who died at her home Wednesday, to be held from the residence.

·1 min read
News Articles

Young Man Recovers From Inhaling Gas

Camden Courier-Post - June 29, 1933 Louis Fox, 23, of 2406 Federal Street , whose unsuccessful attempt at suicide landed him in Cooper Hospital suffering from inhaling gas fumes, is out of danger.

·1 min read
News Articles

Sunday Beer Here Is Up to Reesman As Four Rulers Split

Commissioner Says, However, He Awaits Public Sentiment Moore Signs Act, New Fees Fixed Stewart and Bennett Against, Hanna and Rhone For With four members of the city commission deadlocked on the is sue, Commissioner Clay W. Reesman last night appeared to hold in his hands the final decision as to whether Sunday beer sales will be permitted in Camden.

·4 min read
News Articles

Democrat Women to Meet Tonight

Camden Courier-Post - June 29, 1933 An important business session of the Camden County Women Democratic Club has been called for tomorrow evening by Mrs. Emma E. Hyland , president.

·1 min read
News Articles

Fire Station Closes Soon

Mayor Denies Safety Menace Stewart Declares Underwriters Recommended Change PROTEST IS MADE BY CIVIC HEAD Closing of the fire station housing Engine Company No. 4 at Fourth and Vine streets is now under way and will be completed within a few days.

·4 min read
Sheriff - AI Stock Photo
People

'Vigilantes' To Curb Camden Vandals Suggested to City

North Camden Group Would Have Citizens' Committee and Junior Patrol Up to Mayor Stewart Formation of a "Citizens Committee" to curb vandalism and the development of a "Juvenile Patrol" to encourage young boys to co-operate with police, were suggested last night at a conference in the office of Police Captain Arthur Colsey .

·2 min read
Judge Gavel and Book Stock Photo
News Articles

Mothers Hysterical in Boy Vandal Trial

Refuses Leniency to Sons, Blames Hartmann, Who Hits Back, Charges Inconsistency and Reveals Threat Hysterics among three mothers, one of whom fainted, as their young sons were held for court yesterday inspired another attack on Police Judge Garfield Pancoast by Frank J. Hartmann, Jr. , secretary of the North Camden Civic Association.

·7 min read
News Articles

Woman Acquitted on Forgery Charge

Swedesboro Farmer's Wife Freed of Accusation Made by Camden Man A jury of 12 men returned a verdict of not guilty at 3:55 p. m. yesterday on charges of forgery brought against Mrs. Olive S. Roberts, wife of a prominent Swedesboro farmer.

·2 min read
News Articles

Hours at Libraries Change for Summer

Camden Courier-Post - June 29, 1933 New closing hours were announced yesterday by William H. Ketler, city librarian, for Camden's public library at Broadway and Line Street and its branches. The new hours' will be in effect during July and August.

·1 min read
News Articles

Nellie Tayloe Ross Visits Camden by Air

Mrs. Nellie Tayloe Ross, director of the U. S. Mint and former governor of Wyoming, arrived by plane at Central Airport at 11:25 a. m. yesterday and proceeded by motor to tile Bellevue-Stratford Hotel, Philadelphia, for dinner.

·1 min read
News Articles

Man Held in Threat as Woman Faints

Residents of the 900 block of Howard Street were thrown into turmoil when Charles Bensley, 73, brandished a pistol at his tenant Mrs. Anna Morgan while seeking overdue rent. A bystander from 217 Erie Street helped apprehend him.

·2 min read