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!

News Articles

Man Jailed 3 Months in Theft of Watch

John H. Evans, 64, of 2117 Sherman Avenue was sentenced to three months in jail for stealing a watch from painter Albert L. Hawkins at 805 Cooper Street, judged by Police Judge Garfield Pancoast.

·1 min read
Writing Pen - AI Stock Image
News Articles

Hartmann Denies He Complained in Nude Bathers Case

Resents Imputation by Judge Pancoast of Being Prudish 'Person' Says Mayor Sent Cops Mayor Roy R. Stewart made the complaint which led to the arrest of 14 nude male bathers in North Camden Thursday, Frank J. Hartmann declared Saturday.

·4 min read
Camden NJ Scrip - 1936
News Articles

City Scrip to Pass Million This Week

Tax Payments Redeem $610,000; County's $481, 000 Cut to $170,000 Editor's Note: During the height of the Depression in the 1930's, Camden, like many other municipalities in New Jersey and the United States, was having problems paying its bills.

·5 min read
Chimney Sweep - AI Photo
News Articles

On Keeping Chimneys Clean

First Act of Camden City Council, Over Century Ago, Was to Cut Down Fire Hazard By Way of Ordinance for 'Sweeps' By Ben Courter COMPARING Camden's fire-fighting equipment of today with what the city had when it was incorporated, 103 years ago, the wonder is that some of the fires did not wipe out the tiny community.

·5 min read
News Articles

St. Joseph P.T.A. to Plan for Supper

The Parent-Teacher Association of St. Joseph's School met in June 1933 to plan the supper for the parish carnival of July 12–15, with Mrs. George Meidt as committee chairman.

·1 min read
News Articles

Camden Men Back from World's Fair

John A. Burke of 516 Gordon Terrace and his grandson Hobart M. Luther, 17, of 807 Morgan Street, share their impressions of the 1933 Chicago World's Fair after a week at the exhibition.

·1 min read
News Articles

Salvation Army Names Lippincott

Camden Unit Makes Real Estate Broker Chairman of Advisory Boards Earl R. Lippincott, real estate broker, has been named chairman of the advisory board of the Camden unit of the Salvation Army, succeeding William D. Sayrs .

·1 min read
Americans - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

New Citizens Graduate From Y.M.C.A. Classes

Camden Courier-Post - June 24, 1933 Diplomas and certificates were awarded 25 graduates of the Y.M.C.A. naturalization class last night. They were presented by Herman Hensgen, chairman of the naturalization committee.

·1 min read
Pants thrown in face - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Bandits Rip Off Trousers And Take Worker's $500 Cash

Trio Attacks Man on Way to Shipyard and Menaces Barber Who Goes to Aid With Revolver; Hurl Torn Garment in Victim's Face After holding him up and tearing off his trousers completely from his legs three bandits robbed Adam Wallace, 61, of 1021 South Second Street , of $500 at 7:00 a.m. yesterday.

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

Pancoast Frees Nude Bathers, Scores Those Causing Arrest

Boys and Young Men, However, Are Asked to Carry Bathing Suits on Next Visit To Cooper River Fourteen boys and young men arrested as nude bathers Thursday as the sequel to a city commission meeting, were freed yesterday by Judge Garfield Pancoast with the advice that they wear bathing suits when swimming.

·3 min read
Poisoning - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Partial List of Poisoned

Camden Courier-Post - June 24, 1933 A partial list of the nearly 100 persons poisoned by food at local factories yesterday follows: RCA VICTOR EMPLOYEES: Treated at Dispensary: Barbara White, 3136 North Twenty-ninth Street, Philadelphia.

·1 min read