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!

3000 At Camden - 1918-09-29
News Articles

3,000 At Camden

Spanish influenza attacks workers in New Jersey shipyards Camden, N.J., Sept. 28.

·1 min read
Camden Athlete Badly Wounded in France — Philadelphia Inquirer, September 24, 1918
News Articles

Camden Athlete Badly Wounded in France

William Gooch, an East Camden athlete of 67 South 29th Street, was severely wounded in France. One of eight orphan children, he enlisted in the heavy field artillery in December and trained at Camp Greene, N.C., before deploying with Frank Carver.

·1 min read
Hold Woman's Assailant
News Articles

Hold Woman's Assailant

Jacob Ballerstein, 47, of 1149 Baring Street, held in $200 bail for assault and battery on Mrs. Rebecca Hoffman after striking her with a broom near a saloon on Second Street and Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, July 22, 1918 — Boys Find Charred Body in Fire Ruins
News Articles

Boys Find Charred Body in Fire Ruins

A lamp explosion in a barn behind 751 Ferry Avenue killed Michael Errieski; Patrolman Karl Quinton saved a horse and a family from the spreading fire, which gutted Mrs. Jennie Stevenson's home at 1848 Kossuth Street.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, June 30, 1918 -- Police Arrest New Camden Storekeeper
News Articles

Police Arrest New Camden Storekeeper

Policeman Charles Whaland locates fugitive embezzler Benjamin Landersman, running a Princess Avenue store under an alias; Captain of Detectives Schregler reports his confession.

·2 min read
Veterans Carried Pall newspaper clipping
News Articles

Veterans Carried Pall

Surviving members of Company G, Twelfth Regiment — Arthur C. Stanley among them — served as pall-bearers at the Camden funeral of Dr. Henry F. Chew, the regiment's Civil War lieutenant colonel.

·1 min read
Hugh Boyle, Death of Mrs. Sarah Boyle, Camden Post-Telegram, May 28, 1918
News Articles

Death of Mrs. Sarah Boyle

Sympathy is extended to former Police Captain Hugh Boyle of Carman Street in the death of his wife Sarah Boyle of 594 Carman Street.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, May 27, 1918 — 50 Taken in Vice Raids
News Articles

50 Taken in Vice Raids

Police and detectives swept disorderly houses across South Camden in one of the largest raids of the period, led by Capt. Lewis Stehr.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, May 17, 1918, clean-up week appeal by Dr. H. H. Davis
News Articles

Dr. Davis Urges Annual Clean-Up Week

Dr. H. H. Davis, president of the Board of Health, urged residents to observe the city's annual clean-up week and to “can the rubbish and help can the Kaiser and other filth.”

·1 min read
Here and There in Camden - 1918-05-17
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer - May 17, 1918 The woman who operated the booths during the Third Liberty Loan drive have formed an organization for the purpose of raising a fund with which to purchase an ambulance.

·1 min read