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!

First Ward Club Had a Jolly Time
News Articles

First Ward Club Had a Jolly Time

Annual Election and Feast of Fun Held Last Night Camden Courier-Post - January 12, 1904 Hospitality was rampant at the First Ward Young Republican Club last night. The occasion was the annual meeting.

·3 min read
Patrolman Harvey Cited for Disrespect newspaper clipping
News Articles

Patrolman Harvey Cited for Disrespect

Patrolman William Harvey, eighteen years on the Camden force without a complaint against him, was cited before the Police Committee to answer a charge of using impolite language to Captain Stanley.

·1 min read
206 South 32nd Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, January 8, 1904
News Articles

Negro Brutally Beats East Camden Woman

Jennie A. Craig of 206 South Thirty-second Street was attacked on Federal Street in January 1904, knocked down a six-foot embankment and choked; her assailant fled when her screams continued, and her brother's search led police to a clue.

·1 min read
Fragments of Cannon Crashed Into Bedroom newspaper clipping
News Articles

Fragments of Cannon Crashed Into Bedroom

Captain Stanley traced a mysterious New Year's Eve explosion that sent iron fragments through the shutters of G. C. Burkett's Newton Avenue bedroom to a hotelkeeper whose celebratory cannon had burst.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, December 29, 1903 — Police Scared Pickets, Isaac Burnstine of 225 Byron Street
News Articles

Police Scared Pickets

Isaac Burnstine, a tailor of 225 Byron Street, claimed United Garment Workers' Union pickets were threatening him; Camden police dispersed them.

·1 min read
joscartill-121403-inq-01.jpg
News Articles

No Clue to Bandits, But Suspects Spotted

Camden police were left without a clue after five armed men held up the State Street bridge tender, blew up a safe, and terrorized the outskirts of East Camden. Chief John Foster and his detectives chased leads as far as Elizabeth, New Jersey, without result.

·4 min read
Horse Stepped on Fireman
News Articles

Horse Stepped on Fireman

Thomas H. Nichols of 703 South Fourth Street, a fireman at No. 3 engine house, was badly hurt when a fire horse stepped on his chest after he slipped from the sliding pole.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, October 5, 1903 — Charles Keating charged with assault
News Articles

Charles Keating Committed

Charles Keating, aged 35 years, was committed to the county jail by Justice Schmitz in Camden yesterday, charged with assaulting Elsie Simpson, aged 18 years. The complaint was made by Albert Simpson,

·1 min read
Gunning in a Cemetery newspaper clipping
News Articles

Gunning in a Cemetery

Repeated gunshots broke the quiet of Harleigh Cemetery as hunters dodged among the tombstones. Captain Stanley rounded up two Italians who had shot two robins and a rabbit.

·1 min read