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 272

News Articles

2 Towns to Pay Fees And Keep 164 Pupils On Camden High List

Less than 24 hours after the Camden Board of Education had warned school officials of Pennsauken township and Woodlynne borough that 164 pupils from those towns faced dismissal from Camden Senior High School, officials of both communities last night promised that money owed the local board would be transmitted today.

·4 min read
News Articles

City Athletic Club to Act on Opening

First Unit of Building About Ready for Occupancy; Meeting on Monday Plans for early occupancy of the City Athletic Club's building at Admiral Wilson and Baird boulevards , will be submitted to members at a mass meeting Monday at 7.30 p. m. The first unit of the $1,000,000 structure is 95 percent completed, Samuel P. Orlando , secretary, said last night.

·1 min read
News Articles

New Athletic Club Here is Inspected

Members Visit Building and Discuss Plans for Opening The new City Athletic Club building at Admiral Wilson and Baird boulevards was inspected last night by the membership, when plans for immediate opening were discussed at a mass meeting attended by 100.

·2 min read
News Articles

Ludington Lines Sale is Rumored

Planes Using Central Airport May Be Taken Over by Eastern Air Transport Sale of Ludington Air Lines, operating between New York and Washington with a landing field here at Central Airport , appeared certain yesterday with Eastern Air Transport as the prospective purchaser.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: Pernier Convicted in Gun Case, Camden Courier-Post, January 25, 1933
News Articles

Pernier Convicted in Gun Case

A jury deliberated 12 minutes before convicting William Pernier, former pal of slain gangster William "Shooey" Bonner, of carrying a revolver after he was shot at Locust Street and Kaighn Avenue; he faced three to seven years in prison.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post, January 12, 1933 — 4 Youths Arrested in Bicycle Thefts
News Articles

4 Youths Arrested in Bicycle Thefts

A ring of bicycle thieves is believed by police to have been broken last night with the arrest of four youths and recovery of five bicycles and parts of several others.

·1 min read
"Bob" Ashenfelter, Shot in Duel With Burglars, Asks Pension; John Sheeran Claims Disability
News Articles

"Bob" Ashenfelter, Shot in Duel With Burglars, Asks Pension

Detective Robert Ashenfelter, wounded in the August 24, 1931 gun duel with a burglar at the American Store, Thirty-second Street and Pierce Avenue, and Accident Investigator John Sheeran applied for disability pensions before the Police and Firemen's Pension Commission.

·3 min read
Camden Courier-Post, January 6, 1933: Cops and firemen will meet rulers on 30% pay slash
News Articles

Cops and Firemen Will Meet Rulers on 30% Pay Slash

Representatives of the Camden Police and Firemen's Association, including firemen John Plum, William P. Spencer and Harry Haines, Jr., were to meet the City Commission on January 6, 1933 over a proposed 30 percent salary cut, with the basis of the reduction for 41 five-year policemen the open question.

·2 min read
Obituary for Mrs. Julia A. Grell, Camden Courier-Post, January 6, 1933
News Articles

Mrs. Julia A. Grell

Mrs. Julia A. Grell, wife of William Grell, died at her home, 472 North Thirty-sixth Street, after an illness of several years. Survived by her husband, proprietor of the Camden Towel Supply Company, and a daughter, Mrs. Catherine Thorne.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post article, January 2, 1933: Pensions Awarded 6 Cops, 17 Firemen
News Articles

Pensions Awarded 6 Cops, 17 Firemen

Pensions for six Camden policemen and 17 firemen took effect January 1, 1933, as proposed salary cuts prompted the requests; Inspector Charles T. Humes refused to withdraw his application.

·3 min read
Cops Are Shifted by Mayor Stewart newspaper clipping
News Articles

Cops Are Shifted by Mayor Stewart

As pension retirements opened vacancies in December 1932, Mayor Roy R. Stewart reassigned Camden police, naming Sergeant Nathan Petit head of the traffic bureau to succeed Lieut. Charles L. Laib.

·1 min read