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!

Philadelphia Inquirer, May 8, 1912 — Utley Geise of 263 Byron Street committed to asylum
News Articles

Excessive Study

Utley Geise, 34 years old, of 263 Byron Street, was committed to the asylum; excessive study was attributed as the cause of his insanity.

·1 min read
McCann — Isabella McCann obituary notice — Philadelphia Inquirer, April 29, 1912
News Articles

Isabella McCann

Obituary notice for Isabella McCann, wife of James McCann, who died April 27, 1912, with funeral services held at the residence of her son-in-law, Joseph H. Baker, at 2156 Berwick Street, Camden.

·1 min read
McCann — Isabella McCann obituary notice — Philadelphia Inquirer, April 29, 1912
News Articles

McCann — Isabella McCann Obituary Notice

Obituary notice for Isabella McCann, wife of James McCann, who died on the 27th inst., aged 50. Funeral to be held Wednesday morning from the residence of her son-in-law, Joseph H. Baker, 2156 Berwick Street, Camden.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, April 26, 1912 -- Get Chamberlain as He Leaves Jail
News Articles

Get Chamberlain as He Leaves Jail

Detective Schregler arrests Samuel B. Chamberlain, former head of a fraudulent funeral-benefit association, as he leaves the Burlington County jail after an earlier sentence.

·1 min read
Aged Woman Dead from Fall — Anna Mellon, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 10, 1912
News Articles

Aged Woman Dead from Fall

Mrs. Anna Mellon, 77, died at the home of her daughter Mrs. Mary Knobbe at 315 North Front Street from a fall that fractured her hip.

·1 min read
Court Dismisses Gambling Charge, Camden Post-Telegram, April 9, 1912
News Articles

Court Dismisses Gambling Charge

A Camden Post-Telegram account of the April 1912 police raids on two alleged South Camden gambling houses. Eli Johnson and Daniel Bussey were discharged or fined; among those caught at 829 Locust Street was former prize fighter Walter "Kentucky Rosebud" Edgerton.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, April 9, 1912 — dog bites send two to Cooper Hospital, 564 Auburn Street
News Articles

Dog Bites Send Two to Cooper Hospital

Dogs sent George Farmer, 46 years old, of 978 Woodland Avenue, and George Zimmerman, 5 years old, of 564 Auburn Street, to Cooper Hospital. Farmer was bitten on the arm, while the boy had his wrist torn.

·1 min read
North-Camden-Hit-by-a-Great-Cyclone-2
News Articles

North Camden Hit by a Great Cyclone; Homes Wrecked

Hundreds of Houses Ruined by Violent Wind and Rain and two Persons May Die; Streets Strewn with Debris Two lives will probably be sacrificed, property valued at at least a hundred thousand dollars, was virtually destroyed and the northwest section of the city was laid in ruin when a storm of cyclonic intensity swept over Camden last night.

·7 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, February 27, 1912 — Walter Middleton hit by train
News Articles

Hit by Train But May Recover

Walter Middleton, a Public Service Railway motorman of 1435 South Tenth Street, was struck by a West Jersey and Seashore Railroad train at Mt. Ephraim Avenue; his recovery was expected.

·1 min read