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!

Bermuda Bandits - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Bandit Suspects Leaves Bermuda For Camden

Camden Courier-Post - March 21, 1932 Charles "Jack" Kelly, wanted as one of the bandits who held up and robbed the Pennsauken Township National Bank December 11, sailed from Bermuda yesterday handcuffed to County Detective Fiore Troncone .

·1 min read
Camden Man to Take New Artillery Course
News Articles

Camden Man to Take New Artillery Course

Lieutenant John M. Burdge Jr., a former Camden resident whose family lived at 636 North 4th Street, was named a student in the 1932-1933 battery officers' course at the Field Artillery School, Fort Sill.

·1 min read
News Articles

3 E. Camden Youths Nabbed as Suspects

Three East Camden youths were arrested on suspicion in the early morning hours of March 21, 1932 after police said they failed to explain why they were near Twenty-fourth and Howell Streets at 1:30 a.m.

·1 min read
News Articles

2 Men Pay Fines for Interference

Two men were fined $25 each for interfering with Motorcycle Policeman Earl Wright's investigation of a 2:20 a.m. auto accident at Ninth Street and Kaighn Avenue.

·2 min read
News Articles

Two Men Arrested After Auto Crash

After a March 1932 collision near Leonard Avenue and Federal Street, Basil P. Cook of 449 North Fifth Street and James Fenton of 834 North Sixth Street were arrested on charges including assault, threat to kill, and reckless driving, on complaint of C. N. Morrow of 7 North Twenty-eighth Street.

·2 min read
Court Postpones Case of Indian Husband — Camden Courier-Post, March 15, 1932
News Articles

Court Postpones Case of Indian Husband

The hearing for William May, 54, of Berwick Street — charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly choking his wife — was postponed when Anna May was unable to appear due to the illness of two children.

·1 min read
Family of 7 Flee From Fire in Home — 2010 Arlington Street — Camden Courier-Post, March 11, 1932
News Articles

Family of 7 Flee From Fire in Home

A family of seven is driven from their home at 2010 Arlington Street after a fire breaks out at 5:30 a.m. A nine-year-old boy, John Moore, wakes his parents and brothers to safety; neighbors at 2006 and 2008 Arlington are also displaced.

·2 min read
Crowd of People - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Relatives' Cries Nearly Start Panic

Crowds Mill About Scene of Explosion Where Workers Died "They are in there- dead" That shrill scream from the chilled lips of a relative of two men trapped in the steel tomb of the purifying box at the Public Service gas plant at Locust and Cherry Streets today almost started a panic among 1,000 persons, gathered at the scene a few minutes after a mysterious explosion snuffed out the lives of more than a dozen men.

·3 min read
PS Purifier Detonates in South Camden - 1932-03-09 -1
News Articles

P.S. Purifier Detonates in South Camden

Explosion at Locust and Cherry Traps Workers in Structure; Victims Mostly Temporary Employees Cleaning Metal Tank FOUR OTHERS INJURED, ONE MAY DIE; POISONOUS FUMES HAMPER RESCUE A terrific explosion in the purifying plant of the Public Service Gas and Electric Company at the Southeast corner of Locust and Cherry Streets killed 14 men today and injured four others, one of whom may die.

·6 min read
News Articles

Chauncey Olcott, Irish Tenor, Dies

Famous Singer, Well Known Here, Passes Away at Monte Carlo Villa Chauncey Olcott , noted Irish ballad singer, whose golden tenor made "Mother Machree" and "My Wild Irish Rose" immortal, died early yesterday at his winter· home, "Villa Emeraude" at Monte Carlo.

·2 min read