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!

Benjamin D. Coley
People

Benjamin D. Coley

Benjamin Coley was born in England on February 1, 1826, and immigrated to America as a child.

·2 min read
Theodore T Kausel 1928-01-03
People

Theodore T. Kausel

Theodore T. Kausel was born in New York on October 25, 1885. By 1919, he resided in Camden, New Jersey, where he served as superintendent of the Castle Kid Company, one of the city's leather manufacturing businesses.

·2 min read
City-Hall-1936-10-10-Hindenburg
Historical Accounts

A Zeppelin Over City Hall, Camden, NJ

Zeppelins were developed by Count Ferdinand Zeppelin, who was determined and tireless in his goal to build a dirigible for Germany. At age 61, he flew his first airship, the LZ1, over Lake Constance on July 2, 1900.

·2 min read
Businesses

Wite 60-Minute Cleaning Service

1177 Haddon Avenue, Camden, NJ Originally located at 2000 South 7th Street in Camden, the Wite 60 Minute Cleaning Service relocated to 1177 Haddon Avenue in the 1960s.

·1 min read
Stuart Gottlieb standing out front of 620 Marlton Avenue, Camden, NJ
Historical Accounts

The Story of the Gottlieb Family

As Told by Dr. Stuart Gottlieb M.D. Since I grew up in Camden and worked with my dad at the family business on Mt Vernon St. from the time that I could hold a knife, about age 7 (1947),the site visit was particularly nostalgic.

·5 min read
Daniel and Fannie Gottleib
People

Daniel A. Gottlieb

Daniel A. Gottlieb was born in Russia on August 18, 1882, and immigrated to America in 1890. After marrying Fannie, the couple lived for a time in Pennsylvania, where they welcomed daughter Essie in 1907 and son James in 1909.

·2 min read
VFW Mucci Post 2685 band members Mim and Nino Marcozzi, circa 1940s
Historical Accounts

A. M. Mucci - V.F.W. Band

The band was formed in the later thirties. Its founder was Joseph Constantino. Rehearsal facilities shifted a few times at different locations in South Camden.

·3 min read
Historical Accounts

Admiral Wilson at the Naval Academy - 1921-1925

Rear Admiral Henry B. Wilson '81 (1921-1925), the twenty-sixth superintendent, reported to the Naval Academy having just completed a tour as Commander in Chief, Atlantic Fleet, reverting from a four star billet to that of a Rear Admiral upon acceptance of his new orders.

·2 min read
Henry_Braid_Wilson
People

Admiral Henry B. Wilson Jr.

Henry Braid Wilson Jr. was born on Mount Vernon Street in Camden, NJ, on February 23, 1861, to Henry Braid Wilson Sr. and Mary Ann Wilson.

·3 min read
Hook-and-Ladder-Company-1-1914
People

Charles M. Gladney

Charles Miller Gladney was born in New Jersey on September 2, 1877, to George and Mary Gladney. In 1878, the family lived at 728 Mount Vernon Street , but by 1880, George, Mary, and their older son David had moved to 432 Liberty Street in Camden.

·3 min read
Jesse D. Seybold - 1936-08-06
People

Jesse D. Seybold

Jesse D. Seybold was born in New Jersey in February 1892 to Charles and Lizzie Seybold, though records vary on the exact date, listing February 2, 7, or 8.

·3 min read
People

Jesse P. Johnson

Jesse P. Johnson was born around 1873 in Des Moines, Iowa, and moved to Camden, New Jersey, around 1890. The 1890-1891 Camden City Directory lists him living at the corner of 9th and Pearl Streets and working as a salesman in Philadelphia.

·1 min read