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!

RCA-Building-1932
News Articles

Walter Staats Quits As Victor Vice President

Gives Up Charge of Export Department to Enter Insurance Firm IN EMPLOY OF COMPANY DURING PAST 21 YEARS No Successor is Named; Was One of Johnson's Aides in 1901 Formal announcement of the resignation of Walter J. Staats as vice president of the Victor Talking Machine Company , in charge of exports and foreign trade, was made today at the executive offices of the concern in Camden.

·2 min read
Old Doc Hyghhat Hyghcock - 1928-01-09 - 1
News Articles

Old Doc Hyghhat Hyghcock

Camden Courier-Post - January 9, 1928 Old Doc Hyghcock comes back into the news, wearing hip boots and a high hat. The hip boots and the high hat and the crazy old car he drove are funny.

·2 min read
News Articles

Where the Trees and 'Islands' Came From

Baird Boulevard property owners protested being taxed for tree planting and traffic island grading while Cooper Street property owners challenged road-widening assessments before city commissioners.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post, January 9, 1928, Marine Terminal Foundation Solid
News Articles

Marine Terminal Foundation Solid

Camden's new $2,000,000 marine terminal will rest on the strongest possible foundation, according to a preliminary report made today by Thomas J. Daley, city engineer, on the results of driving test piles for the project about 1,000 feet south of Clinton street.

·2 min read
Newspaper article 'Phila. Rabbi Urges Freedom for Youth', Camden Courier-Post, January 9, 1928
News Articles

Phila. Rabbi Urges Freedom for Youth

Rabbi William H. Fineshriber of Philadelphia told Camden Lodge, No. 915, Independent Order of B'nai B'rith, that freedom for youth makes for better citizenship than repression, at the installation of Meyer L. Sakin as lodge president in the Hotel Walt Whitman.

·2 min read
The Groff Coal Company
News Articles

The Groff Coal Company

Advertisement for the Groff Coal Company at Ferry and Jackson Streets, described as the most modern coal yard in the world.

·1 min read
S. Levy Company construction announcement, 632-646 Van Hook Street — Camden Courier-Post, January 9, 1928
News Articles

632-646 Van Hook Street Construction by S. Levy Company

Camden Courier-Post, January 9, 1928: building contractor S. Levy of 1214 Kaighn Avenue wins a $20,000 apartment-house contract at Eighth and Kaighn, and reports that his eight new six-room houses at 632–646 Van Hook Street, finished two weeks earlier, are all occupied.

·2 min read
Gun Stock Photo
News Articles

Old Doc Hyghcock Nabbed with Ancient Sedan, Gun

Camden Courier-Post - January 7, 1928 "Doctor" Reyouque E.H.H. Hyghcock , whose underground "House of Terror" at 415 Liberty Street brought him much publicity and a prison cell two years ago, was arrested today in Collingswood.

·2 min read
Jewelry Jeweler Stock Photo
News Articles

Jewelry Clerk Held in Robbery of Store

Loot Values at $2000 Taken from Broaday Shop; Second Visit of Thieves Climbing to the roof of a shed in the rear of the Greenetz & Pellicoff jewelry store , 833 Broadway , burglars entered the shop early today and carried away $2,000 in loot.

·2 min read