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 298

Marriage Licenses — Camden Courier-Post, December 13, 1930
News Articles

Marriage Licenses

Marriage license issued to Victor C. Jones, 27, of 18 North Twenty-third Street, and Evelyn Christensen, 18, of 24 North Twenty-fourth Street, Camden.

·1 min read
Burglar Robs Woman of $3 in Hour of Terror — Camden Courier-Post, December 13, 1930
News Articles

Burglar Robs Woman of $3 in Hour of Terror

A masked burglar menaced Mrs. Ernest McLaughlin of 1226 North Twentieth Street for an hour, then fled; neighbor William Murphy of 1221 North Twentieth Street was identified, arrested, and held without bail.

·5 min read
Camden Morning Post clipping, Dec. 13, 1930: Camden Will Honor Chief Stehr Today
News Articles

Camden Will Honor Chief Stehr Today

The Camden Morning Post reported that the funeral cortege of Chief of Police Lewis H. Stehr would leave Schroeder's Chapel, Broadway and Royden street, for Harleigh Cemetery, after thousands filed past his bier and the entire police department marched past the body.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post clipping, Dec. 13, 1930: Camden Will Honor Chief Stehr Today
News Articles

Camden Will Honor Chief Stehr Today

Camden prepared to pay its last respects to Chief of Police Lewis H. Stehr, whose funeral cortege would leave Schroeder's, 538 Broadway, for Harleigh Cemetery. Several thousand persons viewed the body, and the entire police department marched past it.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: Pallbearers Named for Stehr Funeral, Camden Morning Post, December 12, 1930
News Articles

Pallbearers Named for Stehr Funeral

Funeral arrangements for Camden Chief of Police Lewis H. Stehr, who died in Cooper Hospital following a heart attack: his body would lie in state at the Schroeder Chapel, Broadway and Royden streets, with burial in Harleigh cemetery. The article lists the active and honorary pallbearers.

·2 min read
Camden Morning Post headline: 6 Men Are Nabbed as Number Writers, December 12, 1930
News Articles

6 Men Are Nabbed as Number Writers

Six alleged number writers were arrested by Camden's traffic squad on downtown street corners, spreading the belief that Atlantic City racketeers had set up "branch offices" in Camden; two were jailed for 60 days by Police Judge Garfield Pancoast.

·3 min read
Lewis-H-Stehr-Chief-of-Police-Dies-Suddenly-1930-12-11-p01
News Articles

Lewis H. Stehr, Chief of Police, Dies Suddenly

Head of Camden Force Succumbs to Heart Disease in Cooper Hospital City Flags Ordered At Half-Staff for Month Body to Lie in State Friday Night; Final Rites at 2 P.M. Saturday Funeral rites for Chief of Police Lewis H. Stehr , who died suddenly at 11.30 a.m. yesterday in Cooper Hospital , will be conducted at 2 pm on Saturday.

·4 min read
Courier-Post headline: 2 Youths Face Court And Deny Store Murder, December 9, 1930
News Articles

2 Youths Face Court And Deny Store Murder

Camden Courier-Post, December 9, 1930: John Makowski and Stanley Janasz, indicted in the killing of American Store manager John W. Cullen, plead not guilty as the prosecutor prepares to seek the death penalty.

·2 min read
News Articles

4 Youths Held in Theft

Four youths, three of them from Morton Street, were jailed in default of $500 bail each, charged with stealing a phonograph and electrical equipment valued at $85 from a Laurel Springs summer bungalow.

·1 min read
Roxie's Pals Confess
News Articles

Roxie's Pals Confess

Pair Held With Camden Boxer Admit Landisville Robbery - Fifth Man Hunted With four suspects, including Roxie Allen , Camden welterweight boxer, still held without bail, the State Police today continued their search for the fifth bandit in the $200 holdup of a Landisville poolroom Sunday afternoon.

·1 min read
Raid Rhone Ordered Costs Barman $100, Camden Evening Courier, December 8, 1930
News Articles

Raid Rhone Ordered Costs Barman $100

Bartender Daniel McGettigan was fined $100 after a raid on a Spruce Street saloon ordered by public safety director Dr. David S. Rhone for violating the Sunday-closing order.

·2 min read