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!

Camden News Notes
News Articles

Camden News Notes

A December 1906 Philadelphia Inquirer news column from Camden, opening with the location in Brooklyn of William Lynch of 433 South Fourth Street, who had been missing from his home.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, December 14, 1906 — Pedestrians Held Up, Thomas Fogarty
News Articles

Pedestrians Held Up

Thomas G. Fogarty of 2224 South Tenth Street fights off would-be robbers near Seventh and Bulson Streets; Miss Anne Larsen of 2222 South Fourth Street escapes a similar attack.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, November 25, 1906 -- Pistol Shot Nearly Precipitated a Riot
News Articles

Pistol Shot Nearly Precipitated a Riot

A race riot is narrowly averted at Broadway and Mt. Vernon Street when Harry Gedling fires a pistol; Policeman Fiore Troncone gives chase and Acting Chief Schregler orders crowds dispersed.

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East Side Police
News Articles

Police Have Started Census

Camden Post-Telegram - November 3, 1906 The East Side police started yesterday to take the census of the Eleventh and Twelfth wards.

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East Side Notes — Camden Post-Telegram, November 3, 1906
News Articles

East Side Notes

Local notes from East Camden: Nicholas Donahue elected to Board of Trade; Harry Lake ill at home; Ezra Wallace of 38th Street and Westfield Avenue confined to home with sickness; James N. Lloyd of 2831 Concord Avenue seriously ill with pneumonia.

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Injuries at Pavonia Car Shops, Philadelphia Inquirer, October 27, 1906
News Articles

Injuries at Pavonia Car Shops

Walter Hubbs had his thumb nearly severed at the Pavonia car shops, and John Meyers of 1032 North Twenty-second Street had his arm badly squeezed between a car axle and a lathe.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, October 27, 1906 — Annie Sadowski found dead
News Articles

Annie Sadowski

Annie Sadowski, 2 months old, of 1010 South Tenth Street, was found dead in her cradle; Coroner Kirk ruled death was due to pneumonia.

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Still Playing Ball in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, October 24, 1906
News Articles

Still Playing Ball in Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Camden's 1906 season will run longer than ever, closing Saturday with the regular Camden team against a picked team of major leaguers. Receipts go to a benefit fund for Ike Toy, and an exhibition of association football will also be played.

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Benefit Game for Ike Toy in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, October 19, 1906
News Articles

Benefit Game for Ike Toy in Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer previews the Ike Toy benefit game at the Camden grounds, where the regular Camden team will face a picked team of the "prides of Camden" then playing in the big leagues, including Conroy, the Gleasons, Green, Lennox, Steelman, Verga, Fischman and Bob Black.

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Camden to Play Benefit Game, Philadelphia Inquirer, October 17, 1906
News Articles

Camden to Play Benefit Game

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Camden will close its 1906 season with a benefit game for Ike Toy, a popular Camden ball player of the early 1890s who is seriously ill. The Camden players will be opposed by a team of local men then playing in the various leagues, among them Wid Conroy, Kid Gleason, Danny Green and "Farmer" Steelman.

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