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!

Benjamin Abbott Dead
News Articles

Benjamin Abbott Dead

Camden Post-Telegram - March 31, 1903 Benjamin P. Abbott, father of former Clerk of the Town of Stockton William S. Abbott and Policeman Robert Abbott , died last night after a long illness. Deceased was well well known in the East Side.

·1 min read
Brief-News-Notes
News Articles

Brief News Notes

Camden Daily Courier - March 31, 1903 Benjamin P. Abbott, father of former Clerk of the Town of Stockton William S. Abbott and Policeman Robert Abbott , died last night after a long illness. Deceased was well well known in the East Side.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes — Philadelphia Inquirer, February 24, 1903
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Antonio Wislouskie of 904 Carbon Street was burned about the face and eyes while working at the Camden Nickel Works.

·1 min read
Camden Man Shot Lincolns Slayer - 1903-02-13
News Articles

Camden Man Shot Lincoln's Slayer

Boston Corbett , Who Killed Wilkes Booth, Remembered by Many Old Residents of the City To the minds of many of Camden's older residents the birthday of Abraham Lincoln recalled the day's years ago when they had within their midst Boston Corbett , the man who bore the distinction of having laid low John Wilkes Booth, the murderer of the martyred President, when he was making a break for liberty from the burning barn in Virginia.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Camden briefs for February 1, 1903, including Captain Stanley's raid on William W. Woomer's barber shop at 264 Kaighn Avenue on a warrant sworn out by Mrs. Edna M. Laird.

·2 min read
Camden News Notes
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Camden news notes including the arrest of Joseph Leonard at Ninth and Ferry Avenue on a charge of writing policy, days after police captured a policy outfit at that location.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier article, Wagner's Trial for Stabbing Miller, January 26, 1903
News Articles

Wagner's Trial for Stabbing Miller

The main court room was crowded with interested Third warders this morning, when the first of the criminal complaints growing out of the riots at Third and Beckett streets, on the night of July 28, last, during the Congressional primary, was taken up. It charged Charles Wagner with assault and battery on Policeman Harry Miller.

·7 min read
Camden News Notes newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Camden briefs for December 30, 1902, including the $5 fines imposed on six men captured in a gambling den by Police Captain Stanley and a squad of officers.

·1 min read
Raided a Gambling Den, Camden Daily Courier, December 29, 1902
News Articles

Raided a Gambling Den

Captain Arthur Stanley and a squad of officers raid an alleged gambling den at 729 Baxter Street, capturing six men with crap and poker paraphernalia.

·2 min read
Louise Hogan Gets Thirty Days
News Articles

Louise Hogan Gets Thirty Days

Camden Post-Telegram - December 19, 1902 Louise Hogan was again in Police Court this morning - this time a defendant herself. After the release yesterday of Howard Starn, who Miss Hogan had accused of assault, she proceeded to get drunk.

·1 min read
William B. Slacum Perfect Thrift Building Association notice, 1902
News Articles

William B. Slacum

A public notice from William B. Slacum, secretary of the Perfect Thrift Building Association No. 2 at 417 Carteret Street, asking stockholders to bring in their passbooks.

·1 min read