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!

Man Blames Cop as Home Wrecker, Camden Courier, January 25, 1925
News Articles

Man Blames Cop as Home Wrecker

Michael Brown, charged with assault and battery on two women, told police court he forced his way into a house believing his wife was there with a police officer; Judge Cleary held him in bail on each charge.

·2 min read
Three Firemen Hurt at Blaze in Camden, Trenton Evening Times, March 24, 1924
News Articles

Three Firemen Hurt at Blaze in Camden

A Trenton Evening Times report of March 24, 1924 on a fire at Camden's busiest corner that injured three firemen — Lawrence Mathews, Charles Watkins and George Hunt — when a ladder fell.

·1 min read
414 North 27th Street — Walter Hubbs, Camden Post-Telegraph, November 9, 1923
News Articles

East Camden Briefs

A column of East Camden notes for November 9, 1923: lodge and V.F.W. meetings at William Penn Hall and Red Men's Hall, and word that Mrs. William L. Adams of 414 North 27th Street was recovering from a serious illness.

·1 min read
Car Thru Gates in Train's Path
News Articles

Car Thru Gates in Train's Path

A motorist crashed through the safety gates at the Morgan Boulevard crossing of the West Jersey & Seashore Railroad at 2 a.m., narrowly escaping a freight train before fleeing north on Broadway.

·1 min read
East Camden Notes — Camden Post-Telegram, October 20, 1923
News Articles

East Camden Notes

James H. McDermott purchased one of the Lorigan-Hurley homes at 23 North Twenty-eighth Street.

·1 min read
418 North 27th Street, Camden Post-Telegraph, September 17, 1923
News Articles

Has New Truck

"Gus" Allenback, proprietor of the East Side Ice Company at 418 North 27th Street, appeared on the street with a new ice delivery truck in September 1923.

·1 min read
119 North 27th Street, Camden Post-Telegraph, September 17, 1923
News Articles

Operated On For Appendicitis

Victor Floyd of Eufaela, Alabama, employed at the packing station of the Jersey Fruit Growers' Association and living at the home of Dr. and Mrs. R. H. Asay at 110 North 27th Street, was taken to Cooper Hospital by police ambulance and operated on for appendicitis.

·1 min read
201 North 27th Street, Camden Post-Telegraph, September 17, 1923
News Articles

Officer Hubbs Laid Up

Mounted Policeman Harold Hubbs of 201 North 27th Street returned to duty after his horse stumbled and threw him during a Saturday-morning chase near the Harry Sharp School, but his injured leg forced him home after two hours.

·1 min read
907 Kaighn Avenue, 1923 — George W. Benson funeral parlor
News Articles

Frank Holmes Dies

Frank H. Holmes, 65, of 1751 Miller Street, died at his home after months of illness; funeral services were held at the parlors of undertaker George W. Benson, Jr., 907 Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
Take Sergeant Examination newspaper clipping
News Articles

Take Sergeant Examination

District Detective Raymond H. Stark, Acting Sergeant John Potter and Mounted Officer Clarence Thorne of the Third District took the civil service examination for promotion to sergeant. Acting Sergeant Boettcher was slated to sit it but his name was dropped from the list.

·1 min read