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!

Sunbathers - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Nude Bathing Story Had Wrong Sponsor

Civic Group Secretary Says He Did Not Refer to Erector of Petting Sign A nudist bathing resort may be established on Cooper river in North Camden , but Lewis B. Simon, Haddonfield tire dealer and Delaware Township farmer, doesn't intend to be its sponsor.

·2 min read
Union Protest - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Unemployed Union To Plan For Fourth

Leaders Aim to Have Demonstration Similar to That of Labor Day Plans for a Fourth of July demonstration, similar to labor demonstrations staged throughout the world each year on May 1, will be formulated tomorrow night at a mass meeting conducted by the Unemployed Union of New Jersey, according to an announcement yesterday by Frank J. Manning , president.

·3 min read
News Articles

Jews Will Push Aid for Hitler Victims

Representatives of every Jewish organization in Camden were in attendance last night at an emergency meeting of the United Committee for relief of German Jews, held in Talmud Torah Hall, Kaighn Avenue near Seventh Street, when plans to complete a drive for $10,000 by July 3 were adopted.

·1 min read
News Articles

Woman Employer Denies She Forged Farmhand's Name

Defense, Calls 12 Character Witnesses in Trial at Woodbury Wrote Checks 'For Him' Woodbury, June 27- Defense in the trial of Mrs. Alice C. Roberts, Swedesboro, charged with forgery and uttering, was started shortly be, for criminal court adjourned today with the calling of a dozen character witnesses.

·3 min read
Taxi Stock Photo
News Articles

P.S. Taxi Transfer Ruled Fraudulent

Vice Chancellor Orders Transport Corporation to Pay Girl $10,000 Damages Agreeing with the contention that transfer of the Public Service Cab Company to Public Service Coordinated Transport was fraudulent, Vice Chancellor Francis B. Davis late yesterday ordered the latter to pay $10,000 in damages to Ralph M. Chorpenning for injuries suffered by his daughter, Ida M., when she was struck by a taxicab.

·3 min read
Broken Wine Decanter - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Wife Slain by Jagged Glass, Husband Held

Accident Hoax Broken by Cops after Grilling Family; Friend On Deathbed, She Orders 4 Children to Say She Fell on Stairs Command Arouses Concealed Detectives Woman Slashed by Broken Decanter; Man Faces Murder Charge Today A death-bed command of a South Camden mother to her four children to stick to their story failed of its motive last night and the woman's husband was arrested on suspicion of murder.

·3 min read
News Articles

Freda Brown Asks for Maintenance

Wife of Druggist Suing for Divorce Petitions Advisory Master Mrs. Freda Brown, wife of Joseph E. Brown, druggist at Third and Market Streets , who is suing her for divorce, appeared before William J. Kraft, advisory master in chancery, yesterday and asked for maintenance for herself and their two children.

·2 min read
Sunbathers - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

'Nude Bathing Allowed Here, Police Keep Out'

Camden Courier-Post - June 26, 1933 Announcement of Delaware Township's 'Humanitarians' Intention Made to North Camden Civic Group by Target of Pancoast's Criticism A nudist bathing "colony" on the muddy banks of Cooper River!

·3 min read
Miss Thelma Roddy, 1933
News Articles

Miss Thelma Roddy

Thelma Roddy of 1608 Holcaine Avenue, representing the Walt Whitman Grocery Store, was runner-up in a beauty contest held in Atlantic City by the National Association of Retail Grocers, as reported in the Camden Courier-Post, June 26, 1933.

·1 min read
News Articles

2 Jailed for Begging Money from Autoists

Camden Courier-Post - June 25, 1933 Charged with being drunk and disorderly, James Kelly, 34, of 324 Penn Street , and Charles Murphy, 59, of 423 Stevens Street , were each sentenced to 60 days in jail Saturday by Police Judge Garfield Pancoast .

·1 min read