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!

East Side Woman Hurt on Trolley — Mrs. Charles Conner, 2407 Howell Street, Camden Post-Telegram, November 25, 1910
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East Side Woman Hurt on Trolley

Mrs. Charles Conner of 2407 Howell Street was painfully injured tripping over a suitcase while alighting from a trolley at 24th and Federal streets in November 1910.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, November 24, 1910 — Harry Sandell injured
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Harry Sandell Injured at Shipyard

Tumbling down the hold of a vessel at a north Camden shipyard, Harry Sandell, aged 56 years, of 333 North Tenth street, dislocated his right shoulder and was injured about the head. He was taken to Co

·1 min read
More in the Net of Bar Committee, Philadelphia Inquirer, November 13, 1910
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More in the Net of Bar Committee

The Camden County Bar Association's special committee caused several more arrests in the 1910 election fraud investigation; John Stockton, Martin Carrigan and Joseph Sparks were held in $500 bail on a charge of urging a fraudulent vote.

·2 min read
Triplets' Mother Happy — Philadelphia Inquirer, October 19, 1910
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Triplets' Mother Happy

A 1910 Philadelphia Inquirer report on the Alpha Club raising $500 for Katie Macks, the Camden widow at 1702 Hale Street raising one-year-old triplets after her husband's death.

·1 min read
SEVERAL SEEKING LICENSE TRANSFERS The following applications for transfers of retail liquor licenses will be heard at the meeting of the Excise Com...
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Several Seeking License Transfers

Five applications for transfers of retail liquor licenses, including George W. Fry's at 29 North Third Street, were listed for hearing before Camden's Excise Commission in October 1910.

·1 min read
W. Harry Smith, of 320 Birch street, formeraly of the Columbia Hotel, 224 Market street, but now with George W. Fry’s buffet, 29 North Third street...
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Don't Say How Old He Is

W. Harry Smith, then with George W. Fry's buffet at 29 North Third Street, was congratulated by his friends on his birthday anniversary, the Camden Daily Courier reported in September 1910.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier clipping, August 22, 1910 — Arrest Follows Luring of Girl
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Arrest Follows Luring of Girl

Louis Mayer, 19, of near Twelfth and Federal streets, was held without bail to await Pennsylvania extradition on a charge involving a 14-year-old girl, Katherine Corkhill of Alberta street — though Mayer told a different story. (Camden Daily Courier, August 22, 1910.)

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, June 24, 1910 — Four heat prostrations in Camden
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Four Prostrations in Camden

Four Camden residents suffered heat prostration on June 23, 1910, including Anna Connor, 17, of 209 Byron Street, treated at Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
Theresa A. Sorden death notice — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 23, 1910
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Theresa A. Sorden

Death notice for Theresa A. Sorden, 49, widow of John H. Sorden, who died suddenly June 20, 1910; services at 137 North 23rd Street, Camden, burial at Medford, NJ.

·1 min read
Committee Named Ten New Firemen - Camden Daily Courier clipping
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Committee Named Ten New Firemen

City Council's Fire Committee appointed ten new firemen for the new Engine Company No. 7 at Tenth Street and Kaighn Avenue; Daniel Smith and Arthur Wingate were advanced to stokers.

·2 min read
The Morning Post - Held in Heavy Bail for Enticing Woman
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Held in Heavy Bail for Enticing Woman

The Morning Post - May 18, 1910 Through detective work by her 14-year-old sister, Alberta Connord, 16-years-old, who disappeared from her home here last Friday, was found last night in Philadelphia.

·3 min read
Camden News Notes - Phila Inquirer - 1910-04-02
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Philadelphia Inquirer — April 2, 1910 ** In memory of Policeman Casper Hart, who was fatally injured in a collision between a trolley car and the Second District patrol wagon at Broadway and Benson streets , flags at all the station houses were placed at half mast yesterday and the headquarters of the Second district police draped in mourning.

·2 min read