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!

Woodbury Times, March 20, 1913 -- Reformatory Escapees Arrested
News Articles

Reformatory Escapees Arrested

City Detectives Schregler and Brothers and Captain Stanley arrest two Jamesburg Reformatory escapees at a Camden home; both boys are returned to the reformatory.

·1 min read
George Williams Always in Front newspaper clipping
News Articles

George Williams Always in Front

George Williams of Philadelphia's St. Patrick's Club won the five-mile Marathon race staged in Camden by the Business Improvement Association. Captain Stanley and a force of mounted and foot policemen struggled to open a lane through the dense crowd for the runners.

·2 min read
Was in Arrears
News Articles

Was in Arrears

Fred Foy, 30, of 8 South Fourth Street was arraigned in February 1913 for failing to pay $28 owed under a former court order, and agreed to pay off the arrears at $3 a week.

·1 min read
Celebrations by 3 Fire Companies - Camden Post-Telegram clipping
News Articles

Celebrations by 3 Fire Companies

New Year's banquets were held by Engine Company No. 7, the firemen at Headquarters, and Hook and Ladder Truck No. 1; Daniel Smith was among the diners at Headquarters.

·4 min read
Take Sixteen Men in Raid newspaper clipping
News Articles

Take Sixteen Men in Raid

Sixteen men, several cases of beer and many quarts of gin and whisky were taken in Captain Stanley's raid on a house at 214 Pine Street; alleged proprietress Annie Handy escaped.

·1 min read
One Killed, One Hurt by Train, 1912
News Articles

One Killed, One Hurt by Train

Peter Pfeffer, 20, of 628 North 24th Street, East Camden, was killed and Richard Dunn of 2818 Saunders Street seriously injured when a Pennsylvania Railroad train struck them while walking the tracks near Fish House in December 1912.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Camden briefs for November 19, 1912, including Police Captain Stanley's discovery of ten cases of beer in an unoccupied house on Chestnut Street near Second.

·1 min read
Walz
News Articles

Christian Walz

Death notice for Christian Walz, 63, husband of Caroline Walz (nee Schaaf), of 1014 North 26th Street. Philadelphia Inquirer, November 1912.

·1 min read