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!

Building Permits column, Camden Post-Telegram, September 25, 1920
News Articles

Building Permits

Building permits issued September 25, 1920, including a brick foundry building at 1041 Cambridge Street for the Eureka Brass Foundry.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, July 12, 1920 -- Alleged Auto Thief Held in Camden
News Articles

Alleged Auto Thief Held in Camden

William Sing is arrested at a Kaighn Avenue garage after Detective Whaland stakes out a stolen car; Captain of Detectives Schregler reports his admission of guilt.

·1 min read
Ex-Policeman Has Close Call
News Articles

Ex-Policeman Has Close Call

George Johnson, the retired Camden policeman, narrowly escaped drowning at Rio Grande Bridge near Wildwood after plunging from a wharf into 20 feet of water; unable to swim, he clung to a boat until help arrived.

·1 min read
Wedding Anniversary — Camden Daily Courier, June 2, 1920
News Articles

Wedding Anniversary

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Rodgers of 131 North Twenty-third Street celebrated their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary with a large gathering of relatives and friends. The same column reports that St. Andrew's P. E. Mission was conducting a carnival at Reservoir Park to raise funds for a new house of worship.

·1 min read
14 Firemen Win City Promotions, Camden Daily Courier, May 21, 1920
News Articles

14 Firemen Win City Promotions

A Camden Daily Courier report of May 21, 1920 on the promotion of fourteen members of the Camden fire department. Charles Watkins was among those advanced to the rank of lieutenant.

·1 min read
Policemen Retire on Pension Fund
News Articles

Policemen Retire on Pension Fund

Sergeant Thomas S. Reed went on the Camden police pension list after 21 years' service, and Policeman George Johnson of the Third District was to be pensioned on May 15 — with the record of never having made an arrest in 20 years on his Rosedale beat.

·2 min read
East-Camden-Bank-1920-03-28
News Articles

East Camden Bank

Organizers Announce Sale of 600 Shares of Stock Prominent East Camden citizens are forming the East End Trust Company and at a meeting of the organization committee yesterday secretary Leon Todd presented a report showing that 600 shares of the 1000 shares of stock have been subscribed for.

·1 min read
Newspaper article 'Negro on Camden Education Board', Trenton Evening Times, January 23, 1920
News Articles

Negro on Camden Education Board

Dr. Clement T. Branch was appointed to the Camden Board of Education by Mayor Ellis in January 1920, its first negro member; board president E. E. Read and member Harry C. Dole resigned within days.

·2 min read
Camden Democrats to Invade Trenton, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 14, 1919
News Articles

Camden Democrats to Invade Trenton

The Camden Democratic Club prepares to send a thousand men to Trenton for the inauguration of Governor-elect Edwards; John T. Cleary is named among the committee aiding chairman George Fisher.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer article "Camden Jews Open Drive" on the opening of the Federation of Jewish Charities drive at the Towers Theatre
News Articles

Camden Jews Open Drive

Camden Jews opened the great drive of the Federation of Jewish Charities, of Camden, with a mass meeting at the Towers Theatre last night.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, November 26, 1919 -- Widow and Brother Held in Camden
News Articles

Widow and Brother Held in Camden

After the funeral of Regicina Barnetto, whose death is ruled a strangulation, Captain of Detectives Schregler holds the widow and her brother while his department investigates.

·2 min read