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!

Thomas J Francis - 1903-05-30
People

Thomas J. Francis

Thomas J. Francis was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 6, 1831. He moved to Camden in 1850, where he lived for most of his life.

·2 min read
People

Bruce A. Whittick

Bruce A. Whittick, also known as Bruce A. Whittick-Leary, was born in Camden, New Jersey, on December 12, 1947. He briefly served in the United States Air Force from July 1, 1967, to September 1, 1967, before receiving an honorable medical discharge.

·1 min read
Streets

Erie Street

Erie Street in North Camden runs from Beach Avenue to 9th Street, crossing Delaware Avenue, Point, Front, Segal, and the numbered streets 2nd through 9th.

·1 min read
1946 map of Camden showing the Fairview section and Alabama Road
Streets

Dallas Road

Dallas Road is a one-block street running from Tuckahoe Road west to Fenwick Road, with only one house at 915 Dallas Road, first occupied in 1929.

·1 min read
Coriell Institute for Medical Research on Davis Street, Camden
Streets

Davis Street

Davis Street runs southeast from north of Sheridan Street to Ferry Avenue in the East Camden/Morgan Village area, named for Dr. Henry Hill Davis — Camden's first medical inspector and School Medical Inspector in New Jersey.

·2 min read
People

Orris W. Smith

Orris W. Smith was born in Camden on September 8, 1920, to Edward and Catherine Smith. The 1924 City Directory lists the family at 1113 Carpenter Street .

·2 min read
Frank B. Hanna - 1931
People

Frank B. Hanna

Frank B. Hanna was born in New Jersey in 1894. He married Rachel Thomason around 1914, and they had a daughter, Elizabeth, the following year. By January 1920, the Hannas were residing at 5315 Locust Street in Philadelphia.

·1 min read
Frederick Himmelein Jr
People

Frederick Himmelein Jr

Frederick Himmelein Jr. was a native of Camden and a successful businessman in both Philadelphia and Camden for many years.

·2 min read
Sigmund-Schoenagle-1928
People

Sigmund Schoenagle

Sigmund "Sig" Schoenagle was born in Vienna, Austria, around 1875. As a young man, he immigrated to America and settled in Camden, NJ. In 1894, he established a haberdashery at the southwest corner of 3rd and Federal Streets .

·3 min read
William-G-Hillman
People

William G. Hillman

William Grant Hillman was born on August 10, 1865, in Camden, NJ, the sixth of nine children of Edward Hillman and Margaret Grant.

·3 min read
George-R-Danenhower-1897
People

George R. Danenhower

George R. Danenhower was born in Willow Grove, PA, on June 27, 1835. He first came to Camden in 1857 and enlisted as a private with Company C, 12th Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers in 1862.

·1 min read
Danenhower Street, 2003
Streets

Danehower Street

Danehower Street first appears in the Camden City Directory of 1863–1864, running between North Front Street and North Second Street in North Camden. It may have been named for prominent Camden businessman George R. Danenhower.

·2 min read