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!

Grandparents to Care for Child Vice Chancellor Backes, in Camden, yesterday gave a decree placing two-year-old Robert Kennedy in custody of his gra...
News Articles

Grandparents to Care for Child

Vice Chancellor Backes placed two-year-old Robert Kennedy in the custody of his grandparents at 1129 South Third Street, Camden, after his father Walter Kennedy instituted habeas corpus proceedings.

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William Boots injured in a fall, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 12, 1915
News Articles

William Boots Injured

William Boots, 55, of 325 North Front Street fractured two ribs in a fall while closing his shutters and was taken to Cooper Hospital.

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Caught Stealing Flowers — Tony Levindoski, Diamond Street — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 8, 1915
News Articles

Caught Stealing Flowers

Tony Levindoski, 26, of 1069 Diamond Street, was fined $5 by Recorder Stackhouse for stealing flowers from a garden at Parkside.

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Death from Mill Accident — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1915
News Articles

Death from Mill Accident

John W. Derr, 42, of 139 North Twenty-third Street died at Cooper Hospital after being caught in a shafting at a manufacturing plant at Twenty-seventh and Pleasant Streets.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, June 6, 1915 — Cure Paralysis Victims
News Articles

Cure Paralysis Victims

Two children, Eva Sadtler and Anna M. Percival of 2013 South Tenth Street, are discharged as cured from Camden Municipal Hospital after treatment for infantile paralysis.

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Celebrate Golden Wedding
News Articles

Celebrate Golden Wedding

Five hundred invited guests attended the golden wedding reception of Dr. and Mrs. William H. Izard at their home at 411 North Fourth Street, Camden, in April 1915.

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Camden at a Glance newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden at a Glance

Twenty-one men were captured in Police Captain Stanley's raid on a house at 1173 Chestnut Street where a crap game was alleged to be in progress; Charles Myers was held in $500 bail for court.

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Raid Alleged Disorderly Houses newspaper clipping
News Articles

Raid Alleged Disorderly Houses

Captain Stanley and a squad made two more raids near Third and Spruce Streets, descending on the places of Mamie Tinsey at 240 Spruce Street and Josephine Quinn at 807 Locust Street.

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Fall Proves Fatal
News Articles

Fall Proves Fatal

Mrs. Kate Evans, 60, of 1743 South Fourth Street died in Cooper Hospital after breaking her hip in a fall downstairs.

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edwardshyde-032615-inq-1.jpg
News Articles

$600,000 Will Be Spent on Camden

Camden City Council adopts bond issues and appropriations of nearly $600,000 — including a new high school and Fire Department motorization — and creates the office of Assistant Police Chief.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, March 21, 1915 -- Arrest Youth as Fugitive
News Articles

Arrest Youth as Fugitive

Acting on a tip from Detective Captain Schregler, Camden police arrest 19-year-old Russell Pray, a fugitive wanted in Somerset County for theft from a township farm.

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