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, August 27, 1906
News Articles

Camden News Notes

A Philadelphia Inquirer news note of August 27, 1906 reporting a reunion of the Miss Josephine M. Brown Bible class of the old Eleventh Baptist Church at the home of Councilman and Mrs. John W. Coleman, 37 North Thirty-fifth Street, East Camden.

·1 min read
Police Kill Mad Dogs — Philadelphia Inquirer, August 22, 1906
News Articles

Police Kill Mad Dogs

The heat caused two dogs to go mad in East Camden — one on Thirtieth Street, another on Twenty-second Street near River Road. Policeman Johnson killed one; Policeman Thomas killed the other.

·1 min read
Camden Police Made Two Raids
News Articles

Camden Police Made Two Raids

Camden police raided two alleged disorderly houses in August 1906, one on Pine Street above Second and one kept by Rose Cox on South Fourth Street.

·1 min read
arthurstanley-082006-inq-1.jpg
News Articles

Camden Police Made Two Raids

Captain Stanley, Sergeants Hyde and Reader, and a police squad raid two alleged disorderly houses in Camden, arresting the proprietors and confiscating cases of beer.

·1 min read
Silver Street Disorderly House Raided newspaper clipping
News Articles

Silver Street Disorderly House Raided

Captain Stanley and a squad raided 716 Silver Street and arrested reputed proprietor John Hawkins and five other men; Hawkins was charged with keeping a disorderly house.

·1 min read
Doings In Camden
News Articles

Doings in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer - August 13, 1906 ** The flag poles on all the fire houses need painting. ** City Hall . Cooper. Pyne Point and Forest Kill parks were thronged yesterday. ** Open-air services were held by several of the churches yesterday.

·3 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, August 5, 1906 — Frank Ivins, Canary Breeder
News Articles

Frank Ivins — Canary Breeder

Frank Ivins of 210 North Twelfth Street kept a male canary that hatched eighteen sets of birds in a single season while singing freely — a case fanciers called rare. (Philadelphia Inquirer, August 5, 1906.)

·1 min read
East Camden Notes — Philadelphia Inquirer, August 1, 1906
News Articles

East Camden Notes

Policeman Howard Smith killed a rabid dog in the cellar of a house at 125 North Twenty-third Street — the second mad dog he had killed on that street within a week.

·1 min read