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 198

Courier-Post story BLAZE WORST IN 18 MONTHS on the Antrim Hardware Company fire, June 30, 1939
News Articles

$100,000 Fire Sweeps Store of Antrim Co.

A three-alarm fire swept the wholesale store of the Antrim Hardware Company at 1514 and 1516 Federal Street, damaging $100,000 in stock, injuring several firemen and menacing nearby homes and the Standard Oil plant across the street.

·1 min read
Courier-Post photo of Mrs. Elwood Antrim and her son E. Hulings Antrim watching the Antrim Hardware fire, June 30, 1939
News Articles

Mother and Son Watch $100,000 Fire

Mrs. Elwood Antrim and her son, E. Hulings Antrim, watched fire sweep the Antrim Hardware Company at 1514-1516 Federal Street in June 1939; Mrs. Antrim declared it would be business as usual at Twenty-sixth and Federal streets.

·1 min read
Camden police sergeant fingerprinting a theatre manager while moviegoers look on, Courier-Post, June 30, 1939
News Articles

Movie Patrons Getting Fingerprinted

As part of the government's plan to index the fingerprints of all citizens, Camden police took prints of patrons of the Lyric Theatre at Broadway and Newton Avenue, with Sergeant Rox Saponare fingerprinting theatre manager Birk Binnard.

·1 min read
Courier-Post article headlined Get Fingerprinted Gratis at Theatre, June 29, 1939
News Articles

Get Fingerprinted Gratis at Theatre

Lyric Theatre manager Birk Binnard arranged for Camden police to fingerprint citizens free of charge in the theatre's lobby, in conjunction with the FBI's nationwide registration drive and the showing of "Under Cover Doctor."

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Cassady Block Party to Continue Tonight
News Articles

Cassady Block Party to Continue Tonight

The Cassaday Fathers' Association block party at Third and State streets continues tonight and tomorrow nights, with proceeds supporting welfare work among pupils at Cassaday School.

·1 min read
Three men at a ground-breaking for new homes on Baird Boulevard, one pushing a shovel into the ground; Camden Courier-Post, June 19, 1939.
News Articles

Ground Broken for New Homes

Camden Courier-Post, June 19, 1939: ground was broken for the second unit of new homes built by Forest Hill Homes, Inc., on Baird Boulevard.

·1 min read
Clipping: "Drinks, Even If Free, Break Sunday Law," on a Camden Alcohol Beverage Control Board hearing of Sunday liquor cases
News Articles

Drinks, Even If Free, Break Sunday Law

A June 1939 Camden Courier-Post report on the Municipal Alcohol Beverage Control Board's ruling that even giving away liquor on Sunday breaks the law, in a hearing that reviewed several licensees including the Polish-American Citizens Club.

·1 min read
Aaron Twilight League baseball, June 1939, newspaper clipping
News Articles

Delikat Stars on Mound As Mates Gain 7-1 Win

Al Delikat held Polish A. C. C. to three scattered singles as St. Joseph's Polish won 7 to 1 at Farnham Park in the Aaron Twilight League, with Novak and Olesiewicz each hitting a double and a single. Walker Robins beat Lincoln 13 to 0 behind Downs.

·1 min read
Dan McConnell's Scrapbook — Camden Courier-Post, June 7, 1939
News Articles

Dan McConnell's Scrapbook

Camden Courier-Post columnist Dan McConnell recalls the old Court House, the lunch wagon on the triangle at Federal, Arch and Hudson streets, Camden's first traffic cops, and other memories of old Camden.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post clipping: Mute Saved from Jail for Refusal to Speak
News Articles

Mute Saved from Jail for 'Refusal' to Speak

Alexander Purzycki of 1267 Kaighn Avenue, arrested in Johnson Park by Policeman Raymond Stark, would not answer questions at headquarters or in police court. City Jailer William Michalak told Judge Gene R. Mariano the man was a deaf mute, and the charge was dismissed.

·1 min read