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 240

Three Injured, Camden Courier-Post clipping, April 29, 1935
News Articles

Three Injured

Three people were hurt when a car crashed into a pole at Thirty-sixth Street and Westfield Avenue; the Courier-Post also reported several children injured in other accidents.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, April 29, 1935 — Two Camden men injured in auto collision
News Articles

Two Camden Men Injured in Auto Collision

John Kroszewski of 1485 South Tenth Street and driver Stanley Wrotny were treated for bruises after their car overturned in a collision with a truck on Crescent Boulevard in West Collingswood Heights.

·1 min read
Front-page clipping: Klostermans Identified as Numbers Kings by 5 Witnesses, Camden Courier-Post, March 20, 1935.
News Articles

Klostermans Identified as Numbers Kings by 5 Witnesses

At the second trial of Fred and Joseph Klosterman on 12 lottery counts, five witnesses testified they had worked for the brothers' numbers bank, while five convicted numbers writers, among them Walter Hart of 1245 Thurman Street, were returned from state prison to testify.

·24 min read
Dynamite in Courtroom - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Dynamite Stick Causes Shivers in Courtroom

Reno Evening Gazette - March 14, 1935 CAMDEN NJ, March 14 (AP)- Everyone sighed with relief when Walter Baler, forty-three years old, was given a suspended sentence and left with the evidence.

·1 min read
John Gargano Dies of Pneumonia at 63
News Articles

John Gargano Dies of Pneumonia at 63

John Gargano, 63, of 823 South Fourth Street, secretary of the First Italian Republican League for 25 years, died of pneumonia in February 1935 after a seven-day illness.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, February 9, 1935
News Articles

J. W. Coleman Dies, Once Councilman

John W. Coleman, 87, of 31 North Thirty-fifth Street — a Civil War veteran, former Camden councilman and retired Southwark National Bank assistant cashier — died in February 1935 after 45 years in East Camden.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, 'Santa' Pays Fines of Numbers Pawns, about fines paid for numbers writers, January 19, 1935
News Articles

‘Santa’ Pays Fines of Numbers Pawns

Unidentified benefactors paid in scrip the fines of three convicted numbers writers, including Crawford Smith of 702 Carman Street and Arthur Woodridge, two state witnesses whose wavering testimony led to the acquittal of Fred and Joe Klosterman.

·3 min read
Newspaper clipping: Zuni A. A. to Hold Annual Ball Jan. 25, Camden Courier-Post, January 16, 1935
News Articles

Zuni A. A. to Hold Annual Ball Jan. 25

The fourth annual ball of the Zuni Athletic Association, 464 Royden Street, was to be held at Eagles Hall, 415 Broadway, on Friday night, January 25, 1935, with Frankie Moles and His Jersey Cavaliers playing.

·1 min read
Newspaper advertisement: Finkelstein, "King of Shoe Bargains," clearance sale on women's white shoes, $1.29
News Articles

Clearance Sale

Newspaper advertisement for Finkelstein, "King of Shoe Bargains," 25th and Federal Streets: Women's White Shoes $1.29.

·1 min read
Box score - Popeye vs. Independent Umpires, Camden Courier-Post
News Articles

Popeye Turns Back Independent Umps

A Camden Courier-Post report (c. 1929–1935) on the Popeye club's 8–4 win over the Independent Umpires' Association, with George Nicktern pitching in the Rhone Twilight League's annual contest. (No firmer date is determinable from the source.)

·1 min read
Arthur "Ott" Laxton - Camden Courier-Post, 1930s
News Articles

Arthur "Ott" Laxton

A 1930s Camden Courier-Post profile of Arthur "Ott" Laxton, a mainstay of the Haddon A.A. baseball club in the Reesman Twilight League, who played second base or shortstop. (Source dates this clipping only to the 1930s.)

·1 min read