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!

Frank S Van Hart - 1941-01-13
People

Frank S. Van Hart

Frank S. Van Hart was born in 1875 in Pennsylvania but relocated to Camden during his youth. Renowned as an athlete from a young age, he gained widespread recognition as one of the finest second basemen in South Jersey.

·2 min read
Clara S. Burrough
People

Clara S. Burrough

Clara Stewart Burrough was born in December of 1869 to William and Sarah H. "Sallie" Burrough. Her early years were spent in Delaware Township (present-day Cherry Hill) NJ, where William Burrough had a farm.

·3 min read
Chris-S-Stark-Rosedale-Fire-Company-1896-05-01
People

Christian S. Stark

Christian Samuel Stark Sr. was born on September 1, 1857, in Philadelphia, to Henry A. and Rebecca Stark. In the 1870s, he married Eliza E. Leech, and their family expanded with the birth of their son William Leech Stark before the 1880 Census.

·2 min read
Grover Worm Wearshing - 1940
People

William Grover Wearshing

William Grover "Worm" Wearshing, born on August 20, 1906, in New Jersey to William and Nellie Wearshing, was known by his middle name from an early age.

·2 min read
John Keble Cowperthwaite - 1787-1873
People

John K. Cowperthwaite

John Keble Cowperthwaite holds the distinction of being Camden's first mayor elected by popular vote, a departure from the previous selection process by City Council.

·1 min read
Our-Lady-of-Lourdes-Hospital-early-1950s
Hospitals

Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital

Haddon Avenue and Vesper Avenue From the book, Camden County Medical Society, 1846-1956 , published by the Camden County Medical Society, 1957 Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Camden, New Jersey, was opened to patients on July 1, 1950, for the care of all races, colors, and creeds.

·1 min read
Charles A. Reynolds
People

Charles A. Reynolds

Charles Augustus Reynolds was a prominent figure in Camden, deeply involved in both business and civic affairs until his untimely death at the age of 54 in 1924.

·2 min read
Auto Repair

Victory Garage

The Victory Garage at 628 Kaighn Avenue in Camden opened in 1923 as an auto service station and later became an Earl Scheib auto paint shop.

·2 min read
David-Litwin-and-Earl-Crim
Food and Drink

Litwin Brother's Market

Litwin Brothers Market, a family grocery at 801 Elm Street in North Camden founded by the Litwin family, served the neighborhood from 1941 into the 2000s.

·2 min read
Riverline-on-its-first-day-of-service-2004-03-12
Travel

The River Line Light Rail

The South Jersey light rail system, known as the Riverline, started on March 14, 2004. The line consisted of 20 stops and costed commuters $1.10 per trip.

·1 min read