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!

City employe kicked by horse, Camden Courier-Post, February 25, 1928
News Articles

City Employe Kicked by Horse Asks Damages

Charles Morgan, 732 Birch Street, a former city parks department laborer, will appear in Workmen's Compensation Court claiming disability from being kicked by a horse at the 112th Field Artillery Armory stables. The city is represented by assistant city solicitor Rocco Palese.

·1 min read
Gun Money Robbery Stock Photo
News Articles

Teller In Coma Held in $19,000 Theft At Bank

Burd S. Garrett, of Hillcrest, is Under Guard at West Jersey Hospital Believe He Took Poison as Discovery Neared East End Trust Protected; Man Returned to Home Today Semiconscious Burd S. Garrett, 42 years old, 200 Wayne avenue , Hillcrest, near Merchantville, was placed under technical arrest this afternoon as he was being admitted to the West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital .

·3 min read
Ghost Sniper - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

The Reign of Terror — And the Sniper

Editorial Page Of this much we are sure-the Phantom Sniper , whose activities have attracted attention far beyond the boundaries of Camden cannot indefinitely go on, challenging the public, and escape the consequences of his illegal actions.

·2 min read
Ghost Sniper - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Sniper Hits Auto of Atco Farmer

Camden Courier-Post - February 23, 1928 Gloucester Home Also Fired On by Mysterious Gunman Reports of three more shootings credited to the phantom sniper bought the mysterious gunman's score close to the 50-mark today.

·2 min read
Newspaper article 'Street is Ordered Closed by City to Save Woman's Life', Camden Courier-Post, February 23, 1928
News Articles

Street is Ordered Closed by City to Save Woman's Life

At the request of Dr. Clement T. Branch, the City of Camden roped off Ninth Street between Walnut and Cherry Streets so that traffic noise on the cobblestones would not endanger his critically ill patient, Mrs. Hattie Jones of 954 South Ninth Street.

·1 min read
Bertman Criticizes Raid Minus Warrant — Camden Courier-Post, February 21, 1928
News Articles

Bertman Criticizes Raid Minus Warrant

Police Court Judge Bernard Bertman freed Conrad and Elizabeth Bristol of 126 North 30th Street after sharply criticizing police for twice searching their home without a warrant. Invoking the Constitution's protection against unreasonable searches, Bertman suspended sentence.

·2 min read
Ships Battling - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Monitor Survivor Relates Historic Merrimac Fight

Captain James H. Carey , retired employee of the Pennsylvania Railroad and one of the last survivors of the battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac will celebrate on March 9th the sixty-sixth anniversary of the event.

·3 min read
Camden Courier-Post, February 20, 1928, Thomas J. Daley, Sr. obituary
News Articles

Thomas J. Daley, Sr.

The funeral of Thomas J. Daley, Sr., father of Thomas J. Daley, city engineer of Camden, will be held from his late residence, 1471 Baird avenue, on Wednesday. Daley was known as one of the oldest blacksmiths and wheelwrights in the city.

·1 min read
John Carroll Honored by Fifth Ward Club - Camden Courier-Post, February 20, 1928
News Articles

John Carroll Honored by Fifth Ward Club

The Fifth Ward Republican Club honored county committeeman John H. Carroll on his recovery from Cooper Hospital, with speeches from Mayor Winfield S. Price and other city officials.

·1 min read
Runaway boys caught stealing milk, Camden Courier-Post, February 20, 1928
News Articles

Runaway Boys Find Mealtime Irregular

John Gillis, 16, of 517 Birch Street, and Artilo Alleva, 15, who ran away from home, told Police Judge Bertman that the biggest drawback was not eating regular. They were arrested while stealing bottles of milk from a doorstep.

·1 min read