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 243

Camden Courier-Post, May 14, 1934 - Some Old Hall Familiars
News Articles

Some Old Hall Familiars

In a 1934 column, Ben Courter recalls the figures who filled Camden's old City Hall as it is torn down — among them Detective "Bill" Schregler and Chief Jimmie Tatem.

·5 min read
Camden Courier-Post, May 12, 1934 — Wible Seeks Post Held by 'Cy' Harris
News Articles

Wible Seeks Post Held by 'Cy' Harris

In the May 1934 Republican primary, John L. Wible ran for Twelfth Ward county committeeman on David Baird Jr.'s "Regular Republican" ticket, seeking to unseat "Cy" Harris, who was running for an eighth term.

·2 min read
Chambers Seeks Nomination - 1934-05-10
News Articles

Chambers Seeks Nomination

Camden Courier-Post - May 10, 1934 Alexander G. Chambers . He seeks nomination as candidate for the Camden County Board of Freeholders in the Sixth ward, where a stirring battle is expected among Republicans on Tuesday.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post clipping, May 8, 1934: "Club Endorsement Denied in 8th Ward"
News Articles

Club Endorsement Denied in 8th Ward

Eighth Ward candidates Walter Sekula, William Tansky, Jr., and Mrs. Theresa Maloney Di Lello denied that their "Regular Republican" opponents had the endorsement of the Eighth Ward Republican Club, 1718 Broadway, and the William Jones Republican Club, 707 Ferry avenue.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: 4 Held for Grand Jury on Auto Theft Charge, Camden Courier-Post, May 7, 1934.
News Articles

4 Held for Grand Jury on Auto Theft Charge

Four youths, among them Nicholas Boganik of 1305 Thurman Street, were held for the grand jury by Police Judge Garfield Pancoast on a charge of stealing an automobile after Motorcycle Policeman Gus Fortune caught them following a chase.

·1 min read
Cop's Probe Fails to Fix Cause of Poultry Blaze — Bell and Evans warehouse fire near 27th and Pleasant streets, Camden Courier-Post, May 7, 1934
News Articles

Cop's Probe Fails to Fix Cause of Poultry Blaze

A police probe failed to fix the cause of the Bell and Evans poultry warehouse fire near 27th and Pleasant streets, which drove 30 families from their Howell Street homes and killed more than 10,000 chickens in May 1934.

·2 min read
Newspaper article 'Richards Opens Camden Quarters', Camden Courier-Post, May 2, 1934
News Articles

Richards Opens Camden Quarters

State Senator Emerson L. Richards opened his Camden campaign headquarters for the Republican nomination for governor in the Hotel Walt Whitman building, with Jack Weinberg supervising the campaign and naming a committee of 50 business and professional men.

·2 min read
Chez La Joy advertisement for an all-colored floor show, Camden Courier-Post, May 1934
News Articles

Chez La Joy

Chez La Joy advertisement in the Camden Courier-Post, May 1934, announcing a new all-star floor show of all-colored entertainers at Mt. Ephraim and Mechanic Street.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping headlined "2 Suspects Nabbed in Theatre Robbery" from the Camden Courier-Post, April 2, 1934
News Articles

2 Suspects Nabbed in Theatre Robbery

Two South Camden men were arrested on suspicion of robbing the Lyric Theatre at Broadway and Mt. Vernon Street, where a safe was forced open and a radio receiver stolen. Camden Courier-Post, April 2, 1934.

·1 min read
Mariano Will Speak, Camden Courier-Post, March 26, 1934
News Articles

Mariano Will Speak

Attorney Gene Mariano was to be the principal speaker at a special meeting of the Zuni A. A. at 464 Royden street; club president Emil Aceto said members were preparing social and sports programs.

·1 min read