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!

Recently added — page 293

Albert Stehley Otto Coke advertisement, 1012 Everett Street, 1931
News Articles

Albert Stehley Otto Coke Advertisement

A Camden Courier-Post advertisement of October 26, 1931 for Otto Coke made in Koppers' Ovens, sold by Albert Stehley of 1012 Everett Street at $11.00 a ton and $6.00 a half ton.

·1 min read
News Articles

Child Hit by Car

Walter Derengowski, 4, of Lansdowne Avenue, pushing his express wagon between a bus and a private car, was struck by a car driven by George Thompson of 450 Carteret Street at Haddon and Bradley avenues.

·1 min read
News Articles

Charity Solicitor Gets 50-Day Term

William W. Jones, arrested by Motorcycle Policeman Earl Wright for soliciting "charity" funds on a Philadelphia permit, was sentenced to 50 days in jail by Police Judge Pancoast.

·2 min read
News Articles

Four Prominent Physicians

Ben Courter's 1931 Camden Courier-Post reminiscence of four leading South Jersey physicians — Drs. Godfrey, Iszard, Davis and Gross — recalling how Dr. H. H. Davis transformed health care for Camden's schoolchildren.

·5 min read
News Articles

Crash Hurts 2; Driver Held

Hugh W. Wall of 1199 North 36th Street was arrested after his car collided with another at a State Street intersection, injuring two people including Michael O'Connor of 1136 North 35th Street. Wall was charged with having fictitious license tags.

·1 min read
Bandit Wedding - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Missing Girl Weds Bandit on Way to Pen

Camden Courier-Post - October 23, 1931 Bridegroom Linked in Ashenfelter Case; Mother Faints By ERNIE TALBOT A prisoner in the Camden county jail awaiting removal today to state prison, married his sweetheart yesterday afternoon.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post front-page story "'Bus Bandits' Found Guilty; Face 15 Years" with a portrait of Reino A. Thompson, plus its page-24 continuation, October 23, 1931.
News Articles

'Bus Bandits' Found Guilty; Face 15 Years

Reino A. Thompson, 19, of 805 Linden Street, and Henry N. Mallet, 21, of 119 North Ninth Street, were found guilty of holding up two bus drivers by a jury of eleven, after juror Charles B. Kay was excused saying he had been beaten and "put on the spot."

·5 min read
News Articles

Political Paragraphs

An October 23, 1931 Camden Courier-Post political column noting, among other items, that the Polish-American Women's Citizens Club had endorsed David Baird for governor — the first endorsement in the club's six-year history.

·2 min read
Politics - Elephant and Donkey - Stock Photo
News Articles

7 Democrats Rallies in County Tonight

Democratic speakers, urging suffrage in the interest of A. Harry Moore, gubernatorial candidate, and the local Democratic ticket, will invade seven political clubs in the city and county tonight.

·1 min read
Lumber Trees Stock Photo
News Articles

Camden Concern Sees Gain in Orders

Camden Courier-Post - October 22, 1931 Storm Sash and Insulating Board Sold in Increasing Number With cold weather just around the corner, one Camden concern anticipates a rush of orders soon for storm sash and insulating board.

·2 min read
News Articles

Camden to Have New Fight Club

Promoters announced an attempt to revive boxing at Camden's Convention Hall, with a new fight club's first show set for Friday night, October 30, 1931, and weekly shows planned for the Convention Hall Annex.

·1 min read
News Articles

Bitting Is At Speaker Baird Meeting

George B. Bitting, candidate for surrogate in Burlington County, was one of the principal speakers on behalf of the candidacy of David Baird for governor last night at a rally of the Pennsauken Township Republican Women's League.

·1 min read