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!

Body of Thomas Whalen Found
News Articles

Body of Thomas Whalen Found

The body of Thomas Whalen, 27, of 1640 Ferry Avenue was found in the Delaware River off Chester Island; he had been missing since the previous Thursday.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes — Thomas Croker, 831 Dauphin Street — Philadelphia Inquirer, July 2, 1905
News Articles

Camden News Notes

News column covering South Camden incidents including the assault of Thomas Croker at 831 Dauphin Street by Edward Roosevelt, and the disappearance of Bessie Hickey of 761 Division Street.

·1 min read
Catholics Lay Corner-Stone of a New Parochial School newspaper clipping, page 1
News Articles

Catholics Lay Corner-Stone of a New Parochial School

The corner-stone of the new parochial school of Sts. Peter and Paul's Church at St. John and Spruce Streets was laid before several hundred people; the societies marched to the place headed by a platoon of police under Captain Arthur Stanley.

·2 min read
Schlitz
News Articles

Anna Elizabeth Schlitz

Death notice for Anna Elizabeth Schlitz (nee Barth), 39, wife of Joseph Schlitz, of 1021 North 26th Street. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 1905.

·1 min read
New Firemen Added to Camden's Force newspaper clipping
News Articles

New Firemen Added to Camden's Force

With the Camden Fire Department spreading across the city, City Council's Fire Committee appointed additional firemen, naming one or two men from each of the twelve wards.

·1 min read
News And Incidents of a Day in Camden-1
News Articles

News and Incidents of a Day in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer - March 1, 1905 Attacked at Third and Mickle street s, Camden, late Monday night by a man, Mrs. Bessie O. Day, of Seventh and Clinton streets , had her clothing cut in strips.

·4 min read
Policeman Will Contest Dismissal
News Articles

Policeman Will Contest Dismissal

Samuel Alcott, Discharged by Councils, Will Take Case to Supreme Court Policeman Samuel B. F. Alcott was tried last night by the Police Committee of the Camden City Council and dismissed from the service of the city, having been charged with assault and battery upon William Morris , a fireman..

·1 min read
arthurstanley-022005-inq-1.jpg
News Articles

Want Stanley Retained

Business men of southern Camden move to block the removal of Police Captain Arthur Stanley; were he ousted, Sergeant Edward Hyde would fill the vacancy.

·1 min read
More Policemen to Go in Camden newspaper clipping
News Articles

More Policemen to Go in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer, February 19, 1905 — More Policemen to Go in Camden Philadelphia Inquirer, February 19, 1905 Democratic Members of the Force Are Marked for Dismissal From the Department According to a statement made by a member of the Police Committee of Camden City Council to an Inquirer reporter yesterday, charges will be preferred against a number of Democratic policemen during the week and the resignations of the officers are likely to follow.

·1 min read
Camden Police Make Raids newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden Police Make Raids

Acting on Mayor Ellis's recent order, police under Captain Stanley raided four Camden places and seized slot machines; the proprietors were to be heard before Recorder Stackhouse.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1905
News Articles

Camden News Notes

A column of Camden news briefs from the Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1905, including a report that John L. Roberts of 1608 Holcaine Avenue was injured by a trolley car at Broadway and Atlantic Avenue.

·2 min read