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 229

Camden Courier-Post, August 5, 1936: Holdup Victim Held in Speakeasy Raid, an article about Jesse Seybold
News Articles

Holdup Victim Held in Speakeasy Raid

Jesse Seybold of 923 St. John Street, the victim of a "thrill" holdup in March 1936, was arrested as the proprietor of a speakeasy after a police raid led by Patrolman John V. Wilkie.

·2 min read
Courier-Post clipping, Wife Hurt in Fall Fleeing Angry Man, August 4, 1936
News Articles

Wife Hurt in Fall Fleeing Angry Man

Mrs. Blanche Thatcher, 56, of 2203 Howell Street, East Camden, was hurt in a 20-foot fall from a porch roof while fleeing her husband, who tried to break into a bedroom with an ax. Camden Courier-Post, August 4, 1936.

·1 min read
4 Holdup Suspects Denied Bail, Camden Courier-Post, August 1, 1936
News Articles

4 Holdup Suspects Are Denied Bail

A Camden Courier-Post report of August 1, 1936: four men, three of them brothers, were held without bail by Police Judge Lewis Liberman for a holdup that began at Jefferson and Arlington streets.

·2 min read
Trenton Evening Times article, July 21, 1936, Camden Strikers Held for Disorder
News Articles

Camden Strikers Held for Disorder

Judge Frank F. Neutze today turned over to the Grand Jury 26 cases involving riot charges growing out of RCA strike disorders last week. He demanded an aggregate of $135,000 bail for the release of the men.

·1 min read
News Articles

Crowd of 2500 Sees Hard-Fought Scuffle

Camden Courier-Post, July 15, 1936: Jersey Joe Walcott and Billy Ketchell fought a 10-round draw before about 2,500 at the Pennsauken Open Air Arena, with Joey Allen beating Johnny Toomey on the undercard.

·1 min read
Ketchell-Walcott Even
News Articles

Ketchell-Walcott Even in Camden Mitt Tilt

Bridgewater Courier-News - July 15, 1936 Camden - Billy Ketchell, 181, Millville, and Jersey Joe Walcott , 180, Merchantville, battled to a 10-round draw in the windup bout of a boxing show here last night.

·1 min read
Allen Beats Toomey
News Articles

Allen Beats Toomey

By FRANK KOPESKY South Jersey fight fans still are at odds over the superiority of their "Jersey Joe" Walcott , the Merchantville "Brown Bomber," and the veteran Billy Ketchell, of Millville, tangled at the Pennsauken Open Air Arena last night and engaged in a 10-round draw.

·5 min read
Mrs. Jennie Schultz obituary, Camden Courier-Post, July 14, 1936
News Articles

Mrs. Jennie Schultz

Obituary for Mrs. Jennie Schultz, 67, wife of retired Camden fireman Charles Schultz and mother of policeman William Schultz, of 214 North Eleventh Street; burial in German Protestant Cemetery at Mahanoy City, PA.

·1 min read
Joey-Allen-to-Meet-Tough-Foe-in-Toomey
News Articles

Joey Allen to Meet Tough Foe in Toomey

Newark Lightweight May End Local's Streak Here in Semi-final Tomorrow Walcott vs Ketchell in 10-Round Windup A keen two-fisted scrap, which should rival the "Jersey Joe" Walcott -Billy Ketchell featured match, has been arranged for the eight- round semi-final of the Atlas Boxing Club's show tomorrow night at the Pennsauken open-air arena.

·3 min read