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 Stabbed; Woman Held

Mitchell Brooks, 37, of 637 Van Hook Street, was stabbed and admitted to West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital; Charlotte Carter was arrested as his assailant.

·1 min read
News Articles

Jobless Men Aid Police to Trap Suspects

Unemployed men working in community gardens surrounded a vacant house at 331 Boyd Street where two alleged thieves were hiding, keeping them trapped until police arrived to arrest them.

·1 min read
News Articles

Stage and Radio Send Stars To Aid Camden Stores

Jubilee Noted Entertainers Are Given Welcome by Mayor as Event Closes Co-Operation Days The "Co-operation Days" jubilee of the combined merchants of Camden ended Saturday with a visit to this city by stage and radio stars as guests of Sears, Roebuck and Company and the city.

·2 min read
News Articles

New Beer Bill Faces Fight to Make Sunday Sales Optional

Bleakly Insists Each Local Community Should Make Decision System Too Costly, Assemblyman Says Measure Will Not Go to Legislature Monday as Scheduled A bitter fight impends over at least two provisions of the permanent state beer control bill which is being whipped into final shape for introduction in the Legislature.

·3 min read
Leon E. Todd, June 17, 1933, Camden realtor who was yesterday elected vice president of the National Real Estate Board in convention at Gary, Indiana, according to a telegraphic dispatch, Todd has long been active in work of the national board and has served as president of the New Jersey Real Estate Board and of the Camden County Real Estate Board.
News Articles

Gets High Post

Camden realtor who was yesterday elected vice president of the National Real Estate Board in convention at Gary, Indiana, according to a telegraphic dispatch, Todd has long been active in work of the national board and has served as president of the New Jersey Real Estate Board and of the Camden County Real Estate Board.

·1 min read
News Articles

Medals Presented to C.C.H.S. Pupils

Honor students and Athletes Hear Phil Lewis on 'Letter Day' Led by the boys' band of 37 pieces and the girls' fife and drum corps, the Camden Catholic High School student body paraded into the school auditorium at 10.30 a. m. yesterday to pay tribute to the athletes and other honor students who received awards at the annual "Letter Day" exercises.

·2 min read
News Articles

43 Receive Letters at Catholic High

Miss Downs to Captain Girls; Vandy, Wodoloski, Hartman Boys' Leaders Forty-three varsity insignias were awarded, several special prizes were bestowed, and four captains-elect were chosen at the annual Letter Day exercises which were conducted yesterday at the Camden Catholic High auditorium in a gala program headed by three speakers and attended by about 900,including the student body and alumni.

·2 min read
News Articles

75 Students Gain High Rating In Catholic High Senior Class

195 Graduates to Receive Diplomas Tomorrow Afternoon at Convention Hall; 15 to Be Given Gold Medals Out of a class of 195 graduates to be presented diplomas tomorrow at the commencement exercises of Camden Catholic High School , 75 have finished with scholastic averages better than 85 percent.

·3 min read
News Articles

Principals Fete Retiring Members

Association Gives Banquet and Entertainment for 8 at Hotel Here Eight retiring school principals were honored last night at a banquet in the junior ballroom of Hotel Walt Whitman by the Camden Principals' Association.

·1 min read
News Articles

St. Joseph's Stages 'Watch Your Step'

St. Joseph's parochial school students staged the rural musical comedy "Watch Yer Step" at 29th Street and Westfield Avenue in June 1933, repeating the performance after commencement exercises.

·1 min read