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!

Recently added — page 27

Salute to Broadway Eddie
News Articles

Salute to Broadway Eddie

The honorable Mayor of Camden, Gwendolyn A. Faison announces a "Salute to Broadway Eddie ," Thursday June 26th between 11:00am until 3:00pm on Martin L. King Blvd and Broadway .

·1 min read
Eddie Warhoftig - Philadelphia Inquirer
People

Edward Warhoftig

Born in Philadelphia, Edward Warhoftig, better known as "Broadway Eddie," opened a record store at Broadway and Mickle Street in 1966.

·1 min read
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
Illustrated street map of Yorkship Square and the Fairview section of Camden, with a Lenny Agency realtor advertisement at the bottom
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
Sepia head-and-shoulders portrait of Frank B. Hanna, a man with a mustache wearing a suit jacket and tie, 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