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!

Burglar Robs Woman of $3 in Hour of Terror — Camden Courier-Post, December 13, 1930
News Articles

Burglar Robs Woman of $3 in Hour of Terror

A masked burglar menaced Mrs. Ernest McLaughlin of 1226 North Twentieth Street for an hour, then fled; neighbor William Murphy of 1221 North Twentieth Street was identified, arrested, and held without bail.

·5 min read
Pallbearers-Named-for-Stehr-Funeral-1930-12-12-1
News Articles

Pallbearers Named for Stehr Funeral

Body Will Lie in State Tonight—Burial Tomorrow Afternoon Funeral arrangements were completed yesterday for Chief of Police Lewis H. Stehr , who died Wednesday in Cooper Hospital following a heart attack.

·2 min read
Lewis-H-Stehr-Chief-of-Police-Dies-Suddenly-1930-12-11-p01
News Articles

Lewis H. Stehr, Chief of Police, Dies Suddenly

Head of Camden Force Succumbs to Heart Disease in Cooper Hospital City Flags Ordered At Half-Staff for Month Body to Lie in State Friday Night; Final Rites at 2 P.M. Saturday Funeral rites for Chief of Police Lewis H. Stehr , who died suddenly at 11.30 a.m. yesterday in Cooper Hospital , will be conducted at 2 pm on Saturday.

·4 min read
Roxie's Pals Confess
News Articles

Roxie's Pals Confess

Pair Held With Camden Boxer Admit Landisville Robbery - Fifth Man Hunted With four suspects, including Roxie Allen , Camden welterweight boxer, still held without bail, the State Police today continued their search for the fifth bandit in the $200 holdup of a Landisville poolroom Sunday afternoon.

·1 min read
Players Lined up, Relieved of $200
News Articles

Roxie Allen Held as One of Gang in Dice Game Holdup

Pugilist and Pal Identified as 2 of 4 bandits in Landisville Robbery Players Lined Up, Relieved of $200 Robbers Flee in Stolen Car With Crippled Man at Wheel Roxie Allen , Camden's famed welterweight boxer, and one of his pals were arrested last night and Identified, according to police, as two of four men who held up a craps game early yesterday at Landisville.

·3 min read
Bail is Denied Roxie Allen
News Articles

Bail Is Denied Roxie Allen in Robbery of 15 in Craps Game

Three Pals of Camden Boxer Also Jailed at Shore for Grand Jury Quartet Identified by Poolroom Owner Limp Betrays Fighter at Landisville - Says He Did Not Aid Holdup Identified as four of the five bandits who held up and robbed 15 men at a craps game in a Landisville poolroom yesterday, Roxie Allen , well-known South Jersey boxer, and three other South Camden youths are under arrest today.

·4 min read
Camden Courier-Post, December 6, 1930
News Articles

Widow's Home Robbed

Thieves entered the second-floor apartment of Mrs. Flora B. Scannell at 29 North Third Street and took $1000 in jewelry and $100 in cash hidden in a bureau drawer.

·1 min read
Mrs. Louisa Barnes — Obituary
News Articles

Mrs. Louisa Barnes — Obituary

Funeral notice for Mrs. Louisa Barnes of 823 Ferry Avenue, widow of Allen Barnes, with services at Ferry Avenue M.E. Church and burial at Mt. Peace Cemetery.

·1 min read