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!

Jacob Dreher motorcycle crash, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 24, 1917
News Articles

Motorcyclists Hurt in Crash with Auto

Jacob Dreher, 25, of 214 Birch Street, and Walter A. Trebing, 27, of 508 North Fifth Street, were thrown from their motorcycle in a crash with an automobile. Dreher sustained a fracture of the right leg.

·1 min read
Killed by Train
News Articles

Killed by Train

Thirteen-year-old Edward A. Mullen of 123 North 33rd Street was killed instantly when struck by a Pennsylvania Railroad train at Fish House. His skull was fractured, ribs crushed, and right arm and shoulder broken. Coroner Pratt ruled accidental death.

·1 min read
Fireman Frank Bott injured, Camden Post-Telegram, April 19, 1917
News Articles

Fireman Frank Bott Injured

Fireman Frank Bott of the North Front Street company was bruised and slightly injured fighting the fire that gutted the Kohlenberg stables on the river front.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, April 13, 1917 — Man Believed Demented Is Held
News Articles

Man Believed Demented Is Held

While members of the family of Frederick Reuling, of 1257 Kenwood avenue, Camden, were upstairs yesterday, they detected smoke. When they investigated they found a man in the living room before papers

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Charged with being Assailant
News Articles

Chared with Being the Assailant

Charged with being the assailant of Sergeant of Police George Anderson , who was knocked from at automobile by the chauffeur on March 2, when he attempted to make an arrest, Frank E Wade, 28 years old, of 415 North Fourth street was held in $500 bail by the Recorder yesterday.

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Here and There in Camden — Philadelphia Inquirer, February 11, 1917
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Local briefs from Philadelphia Inquirer, February 11, 1917: Miss Eveline Pratley of 221 North 38th Street lost three fingers in a machine accident at 38th Street and Westfield Avenue. Also: a tugboat injury, a business incorporation, and a child's broken arm.

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Stole to Buy Funeral Garb, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 9, 1917
News Articles

Stole to Buy Funeral Garb

Harry Cross and Herbert Lamb of 741 Baxter Street admit stealing iron pipe from Charles W. Moore to afford clothes for a sister's funeral.

·1 min read
Husband Lay Dead Beside Her — Philadelphia Inquirer, February 9, 1917
News Articles

Husband Lay Dead Beside Her

When Mrs. Charles W. Garrison awoke at 112 North 30th Street, East Camden, she found her 76-year-old husband had died in his sleep. Coroner Pratt attributed death to apoplexy, noting he had been dead several hours before she woke.

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Two Sisters Die in an Hour — Samuel Latham, 110 Allen's Court, Camden Courier-Post, January 31, 1917
News Articles

Two Sisters Die in an Hour

Olga Latham, four months old, died within an hour of her sister Elizabeth, 4 years old, in the home of Samuel and Mrs. Latham at 10 Allen's Court. Camden Courier-Post, January 31, 1917.

·1 min read
Two Sisters Die in an Hour — Samuel Latham, 110 Allen's Court, Camden Courier-Post, January 31, 1917
News Articles

Two Sisters Die in an Hour

Two daughters of Samuel Latham, a mariner of 10 Allen's Court, die within an hour of each other — Olga, four months old, and Elizabeth, four years old.

·1 min read