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 295

Robbery Gang - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Robbery Gang of 4 Given Long Terms

Two Figured in Wounding of Cop and Slaying of Pal Four members of the notorious North Cramer Hill gang, two of them participants in the robbery in which one bandit was killed after wounding a city detective, were sentenced to state prison terms by Judge Samuel M. Shay yesterday.

·5 min read
Newspaper advertisement for the Berul School of Music, listing instruments and its Kenwood and Kaighn Avenue locations.
News Articles

Berul School of Music

Advertisement for the Berul School of Music, October 17, 1931, listing lessons in piano, violin, cello, saxophone, clarinet, drums, banjo, mandolin and elocution, with a branch at 428 Kaighn Avenue.

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

3 Democratic Rallies Scheduled Tonight

Camden Courier-Post - October 16, 1931 A combined A. Harry Moore rally and social evening will be conducted by Democratic voters of the Eleventh Ward tonight at the Maennerchor Hall, Twenty-seventh Street below River Avenue .

·1 min read
Anna Raczkowski - 1931-10-16
News Articles

Ash Can Girl 'Out' Again; Parents Held

Camden Courier-Post - October 16, 1931 Dad Who Took Her Rejoins Mother; Anna Loses Home Anna Rickowska [Correct Spelling is Raczkowski. --ed.] - 11-year-old child who lived for two weeks in an ash can has been driven from home again.

·2 min read
Smith-Austermuhl Co. advertisement, Truth Stranger Than Fiction, Camden Courier-Post, October 16, 1931
News Articles

Truth Stranger Than Fiction

A Camden Courier-Post advertisement of October 16, 1931 for the Smith-Austermuhl Co., insurance, real estate, mortgages and investments at Fifth and Market Streets, promising prompt adjustment of fire insurance claims day or night: "It is better to have insurance and not need it than need it and not have it."

·1 min read
News Articles

Mrs. Esther Smith

Mrs. Esther Smith of 1038 North Twenty-second Street hosted an evening entertainment for her daughter Miss Clare Smith and eleven guests.

·1 min read
Beatrice Funk, Who was chosen queen of the show and dance held at Convention Hall last night by the Camden Shrine Club of Crescent Temple. Miss Funk last year also was the Camden winner of the Stanley Sunshine contest.
News Articles

Shrine Club's Relief Fund is Swelled as 4000 Applaud at One of Greatest Shows

Convention Hall Crowded, Several Thousand Dollars Realized Beatrice Funk Most Popular Event So Successful It May Become Annual Affair The relief fund of the Camden Shrine Club, which will aid its unemployed and distressed members, was swelled by several thousand dollars last night from the receipts of one of the greatest vaudeville shows ever seen in the Convention Hall.

·3 min read
News Articles

Mrs. Hyland to Open New Democratic Club

The Eleventh Ward Democratic Club, 923 North Twenty-seventh Street , will be opened formally tonight by Mrs. Emma E. Hyland , Democratic state committeewoman, and Samuel T. French , prominent attorney and worker for the party.

·1 min read