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!

Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, November 17, 1900: Coming Boxing Bouts, Owen Ziegler and Jack Bennett at the Penn Art Monday night
News Articles

Coming Boxing Bouts

Manager McCarthy has finally settled upon Jack Bennett to meet Owen Ziegler in the wind-up at the Penn Art Club, Twentieth street and Montgomery avenue, on Monday night next. They appeared at one of the early shows of the club, and put up a go that was worth travelling miles to witness.

·3 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer article Murder Witness on the Rack about the investigation of the death of Cornelius Preston
News Articles

Murder Witness on the Rack

County Detectives Smith and Cherry and City Detective Painter, of Camden, are investigating the death of Cornelius Preston, whose body was found in Big Timber Creek, near Westville, on March 5, 1899.

·1 min read
507 Arch Street - Thomas E. Mason - Philadelphia Inquirer August 16 1900
News Articles

Over in Camden

Camden briefs for August 16, 1900, including a $10.75 fine imposed on saloonkeeper William F. Sands for using abusive language to Police Captain Stanley.

·1 min read
Automobiles Tabooed - Wilkes-Barre Times - 1900-08-09
News Articles

Automobiles Tabooed

Wilkes-Barre Times - August 9, 1900 Camden, NJ, Aug 9—At a meeting of the Camden County board of freeholders steps were taken looking to the exclusion of automobiles from roads in the county.

·1 min read
Raid Over in Camden newspaper clipping
News Articles

Raid Over in Camden

Police Captain Stanley and Sergeant Hyde raid two alleged disorderly houses on Pine Street above Tenth, arresting the reputed proprietors and thirteen inmates.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, July 8, 1900 — A chimney 235 feet high erected by Howland Croft and Sons Company at Broadway and Jefferson Avenue
News Articles

A Chimney 235 Feet High

The Howland Croft & Sons Company erected a 235-foot chimney at Broadway and Jefferson Avenue — the tallest stack in Camden.

·1 min read
Emley Herman cat bite, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 8, 1900
News Articles

Emley Herman

Emley Herman, 10, of 323 Birch Street, was taking a cat to Philadelphia in a basket when the cat escaped on the ferryboat. In trying to recapture it he was severely bitten on the thumb.

·1 min read
Robbers in Skirts, Camden Post-Telegram, July 2, 1900
News Articles

Robbers in Skirts

Two men in women's clothing rob George Brown of $30 on Baxter Street, fleeing toward Lily Row.

·1 min read
Fourteen Caught in Saloon Round-Up, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 26, 1900
News Articles

Fourteen Caught in Saloon Round-Up

Fourteen Camden county liquor dealers arrested by Law and Order League agent George B. M. Adams, including William Convery at Eleventh and Carpenter Streets; all entered bail before Justice Schultz.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, June 24, 1900: McConnell and Cleary to Meet
News Articles

McConnell and Cleary to Meet

The Broadway A. C., Broad and Ellsworth, will give the boys a run for their money to-morrow night. For the grand wind up it has two of the best men that could be secured, namely, Dan McConnell, the champion lightweight of Camden, and Tom Cleary, of Fairmount.

·1 min read