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 309

Variety obituary of comedian Johnny Dooley, June 13, 1928
News Articles

Johnny Dooley

Johnny Dooley, 41, comedian, died June 7 in the Homeopathic Hospital, Yonkers, of intestinal trouble. He had recently been operated upon for appendicitis.

·2 min read
Joseph Sparks obituary — Camden Courier-Post, May 21, 1928
News Articles

Joseph Sparks

Policeman Joseph Sparks, a city employee for 17 years, died at West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital from spinal meningitis. He lived at 20 North Twenty-eighth Street and had served as a patrolman since 1918, after seven years as a junior captain in Fire Company No. 7.

·1 min read
Baseball Played In Truck Costs $100, Ruins Diamond, Camden Courier-Post, April 25, 1928 (first crop)
News Articles

Baseball Played In Truck Costs $100, Ruins Diamond

A fruit dealer named Caruso, of 1131 South Fourth Street, practiced his truck driving on the freshly groomed baseball diamond at Broadway and Everett Street and was fined $50 plus $50 for repairs. Camden Courier-Post, April 25, 1928.

·2 min read
Camden Courier-Post feature on William L. Hurley, Camden furniture merchant, April 23, 1928
News Articles

Hurley Based Success in Life and in Business on Square Deal to All

Camden Courier-Post, April 23, 1928: Ben Courter's profile of William L. Hurley, who built a small store at Fifth and Pine streets into the Gately & Hurley store at Broadway and Pine streets on a policy of square dealing, and who championed the Camden bridge and the extension of Broadway.

·16 min read
Newspaper clipping, 'Polack Joe' Enters Plea of Not Guilty, Camden Courier-Post, April 23, 1928
News Articles

'Polack Joe' Enters Plea of Not Guilty

Joseph "Polack Joe" Devon, who shot and killed Joseph Cimini of Philadelphia in the Sixth Ward Republican Club at 908 Broadway, entered a plea of not guilty to a manslaughter charge before Judge Samuel M. Shay.

·1 min read
Courier-Post story, April 20, 1928: Rough 3 A.M. Visits Land Romeos in Toils, three youths break a door at 1541 Louis Street.
News Articles

Rough 3 A. M. Visits Land Romeos in Toils

Three 18-year-old youths were arrested in April 1928 on their third attempt at 3 a.m. to break into a house at 1541 Louis Street after a girl living there broke an engagement; Police Judge Bertman released them when they promised to pay for the door.

·1 min read
Burke and Gimble Win
News Articles

Burke and Gimble Win

Camden Courier Post - April 20, 1928 Buddy Burke beat Jimmy Golden in the 10-round feature bout at the Manayunk A. C. last night. Harry Gimble returned to the ring and knocked out Jose Diazeno, of Cuba, in the fifth round of the semi-final.

·1 min read
Zimmerman-is-Victor-Over-Midget-Ambrose
News Articles

Zimmerman is Victor over Midget Ambrose

Camden Courier Post - April 20, 1928 National Park, Feb. 12. Bobby Zimmerman , of Fairview, who holds the South Jersey flyweight championship, defeated Midget Ambrose, of Vineland, in the six-round windup here last night at the Belmont Fire Hall.

·1 min read
22 Firemen Assigned to New Stations, Camden Courier-Post, April 17, 1928
News Articles

22 Firemen Assigned to New Stations

Camden Courier-Post, April 17, 1928. Twelve new firemen and ten promoted men were assigned to their new stations by Chief Thomas J. Nicholas, completing the department's complement of 200 men.

·2 min read