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!

People

Harry L. Leonard

Harry L. Leonard was a Camden-born funeral director and World War I veteran who opened his own funeral parlor at 120 South 27th Street in 1927, later moving to 2850 Federal Street, and ran for Camden County Coroner in 1936.

·7 min read
John T. Rodan, 1931
People

John T. Rodan

Tuckahoe-born Camden politician who served as Twelfth Ward freeholder for 14 years and as president of the East Camden Building and Loan Association from 1925 to 1946. His last home was 61 South 27th Street.

·16 min read
People

Walter P. Hubbs Sr.

Walter Page Hubbs Sr. (1871–after 1953) was a Camden, NJ police officer appointed in 1902 and dismissed in 1905 when Republicans returned to power. He later worked as a car repairer at the Pavonia railroad yards, living at 201 North 27th Street.

·9 min read
People

Leonard F. Garbrecht

Leonard F. Garbrecht (1910–2000) was a Camden fire captain who served from 1941 until retiring on disability in 1960. He was the last remaining captain of that era and a charter member of Camden City Firefighters Local 788.

·6 min read
106 South 27th Street — Earl A. Cryne
People

Earl A. Cryne

Camden aviator and Army Colonel; organized the South Jersey Aviation Club from his home at 106 South 27th Street and was instrumental in establishing Central Airport. Born May 25, 1884 in New Britain CT, he died in December 1961 in Ventura CA.

·7 min read
David Tattersdill
People

David Tattersdill

David Tattersdill was born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England in 1873 and opened his first music store at 1002 North 27th Street in Cramer Hill in 1903, building a business on Broadway that his sons continued operating into the 1970s.

·11 min read
Harry Jackson Mote — WWII memorial
People

Harry Jackson Mote Jr.

Harry Jackson Mote Jr. of Camden, NJ, served as Second Engineer aboard the Liberty Ship SS Meriwether Lewis. He was lost on March 2, 1943 when the ship was torpedoed and sunk by German Submarine U-634 in the North Atlantic, with all hands.

·2 min read
Henry L. Barroway, 314 Carteret Street
People

Henry L. Barroway

Henry L. "Harry" Barroway was a prominent Camden attorney and founding president of Congregation Beth El. Last a resident of 458 South 27th Street, he died in November 1965.

·2 min read
People

Mike Rozier

Mike Rozier was a star running back at Woodrow Wilson High School in Camden, won the 1983 Heisman Trophy at the University of Nebraska, and played seven years with the Houston Oilers.

·5 min read
Private William R. McKee — WWII memorial card
People

William R. McKee

William R. McKee of Mount Ephraim NJ served as a Private in the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment. He was reported missing in action on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and was declared dead June 10, 1944. His name is inscribed on the Tablets of the Missing at Cambridge American Cemetery in Cambridge, England.

·2 min read
People

Dr. Milton H. Gordon

Dr. Milton H. Gordon was a Camden physician specializing in internal medicine and cardiology who practiced at offices on North 27th Street and the Wilson Building.

·2 min read
Louis R. Mote, 1111 North 23rd Street
People

Louis R. Mote

Louis Rodger Mote (1884–1939) owned a home at 1111 North 23rd Street in Cramer Hill and worked at one of Camden's shipyards before serving as Assistant Superintendent of Streets for the City of Camden under Mayor Winfield S. Price. He and his wife Louise were active in 11th Ward Republican politics.

·2 min read