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 248

Radio In Your Auto: George's advertisement for a $39.95 automobile radio, Camden Courier-Post, August 2, 1933
News Articles

Radio In Your Auto

An August 2, 1933 Camden Courier-Post advertisement for George's, 210-216 Arch Street, offering all-in-one-unit automobile radios for $39.95 with no cash down and $4 a month.

·1 min read
News Articles

LUCAS TO OPPOSE BASHARA IN WIND UP

Whitman Park Lightweight Meets Old Rival in Feature Bout Here Friday Lew McFarland, matchmaker for the newly organized Camden Sporting Club has arranged another attractive card for this Friday night's show at Grip's Pennsauken township open-air Arena.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, July 12, 1933: Beer Seller Is Fined for Lack of License.
News Articles

Beer Seller Is Fined for Lack of License

Judge Pancoast fined Herbert Reuben $25 in July 1933 for selling beer without a license at 925 Liberty Street, but freed Frank Tomiczwicz of 1111 Louis Street with a warning after testimony that he was destitute.

·1 min read
C B Coles Fire - Mechanic Street - 1933-07-11
News Articles

$250,000 Fire at Camden, N.J.

CAMDEN, N.J., July 11 — Damage was estimated at more than $250,000 today after a survey of the ruins of a lumber yard, two factory-buildings, and 13 houses, razed by a fire, which demolished an entire city block late yesterday.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post headline Camden Protected During Big Blaze, July 11, 1933
News Articles

Camden Protected During Big Blaze

With all of Camden's apparatus at the Kaighn's Point conflagration, three off-duty firemen, Captain Clarence Madden and Firemen John Mulligan and George Garner, broke into the discontinued Fourth and Vine streets firehouse, drove its truck to headquarters at Fifth and Arch streets and stood by on call; Chief John H. Lennox commended them.

·1 min read
Horse Trading - 1933-06-30
News Articles

Baird, Stokes Lash Richards Ambitions And 'Horse Trading'

Dinner to Reesman and Mrs. Verga Packs Whitman Local Delegates Get High Praise Ex-Governor Denounces Roosevelt Program, Hits Inflation By Ransloe Boone Bitter criticism of the "horse trading" of the Legislature and the gubernatorial aspirations of Senate President Emerson L.Richards, were coupled with appeals for party loyalty and praise for Camden county's leaders at a dinner of the Camden County Republican Committee in Hotel Walt Whitman last night.

·12 min read
News Articles

City Won't Rule on Sunday Beer Sales Unless People Demand

Reesman to Decide If Commissioners Offer Resolution Beverage Dispensers Will Discuss Question at Next Meeting 19 Licenses Issued "The Camden City Commission will take no action on the Sunday beer sale question unless the people express a strong desire for Sunday beer." This is the declaration made yesterday by Mayor Roy R. Stewart .

·4 min read
Bathing Season Opens at Home for Friendless
News Articles

Children at Camden Home Have Big Time in Wading Pool

Bathing Place, Given by Citizens Officially Opened Four Youthful Charges, Left Motherless, to Return to Father Bathing in the backyard is a privilege of the children of the Camden Home for Friendless Children that is enjoyed by few of the other youngsters in the city.

·2 min read