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 310

'Upper-r! Who's Got a Aig-gg!' headline, Camden Courier-Post, April 6, 1928
News Articles

'Upper-r! Who's Got a Aig-gg!'

Joseph Troiano of 603 Avon Street and Vincent Zito of 209 Line Street are photographed playing "Upper" (Egg-Picking), the traditional South Jersey Easter game, for the Camden Courier-Post.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping headlined Man Held on Charge of Stealing Plumbing
News Articles

Man Held on Charge of Stealing Plumbing

Joseph Tisso [sic], 22, of 214 Benson Street, was arrested at Second and Market streets on a charge of stripping plumbing fixtures and lead pipe from a vacant house at Third and Mickle streets; Captain of Detectives John Golden said he had confessed.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, April 6, 1928: "Crash Follows Crash at Same Intersection," about two auto accidents in Camden
News Articles

Crash Follows Crash at Same Intersection

Two automobile accidents at the same East Camden intersection within minutes of each other injured three people, including Dr. A. Lincoln Sherk and a ten-year-old girl struck by a car driven by a resident of 347 Hillside Avenue.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post clipping, April 5, 1928: committee to arrange a banquet for Carl Kisselman
News Articles

Committee to Arrange Banquet for Kisselman

The Carl Kisselman dinner committee was to meet at the offices of Albert S. Woodruff, 328 Market Street, to complete plans for a testimonial banquet honoring the newly appointed second assistant city solicitor. The dinner was set for Hotel Walt Whitman on April 24, with former Senator Woodruff as toastmaster and Lewis Liberman as committee chairman.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, April 4, 1928: Promoted Firemen Take Posts Today, naming John H. Lennox deputy chief
News Articles

Promoted Firemen Take Posts Today

Camden Courier-Post, April 4, 1928. John H. Lennox was promoted to deputy chief and Rollo Jones to battalion chief of the Camden Fire Department, eight men were elevated to senior and junior captain, and eleven new firemen were appointed.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: Howard Dudley Named to Head Rotary Club
News Articles

Howard Dudley Named to Head Rotary Club

Howard J. Dudley, Broadway furniture merchant, was nominated unopposed as president of the Camden Rotary Club at a meeting in the Hotel Walt Whitman, the Camden Courier-Post reported April 4, 1928, along with the club's other nominations for officers, directors and conference delegates.

·1 min read
Newspaper article, 'Elks Install Stewart as New Ruler Tonight,' Camden Courier-Post, April 4, 1928
News Articles

Elks Install Stewart as New Ruler Tonight

With two Assemblymen taking the highest stations, Camden Lodge of Elks will tonight install recently elected officers at the home, Seventh and Cooper streets. The ceremony will be presided over by Past Exalted Ruler James H. Long.

·1 min read
Courier-Post column on Joseph Devon released on bail in a Camden murder case, April 4, 1928
News Articles

Polack Joe Out on Bail Despite Murder Charge

Although still technically charged with murder in the Sixth Ward Republican Club slaying, Joseph ("Polack Joe") Devon was released from the Camden county jail under $2,500 bail fixed by Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Varbalow, without Judge Samuel M. Shay or Prosecutor Ethan P. Wescott being consulted.

·3 min read
Courier-Post, April 3, 1928: 11th Ward G.O.P. Club to discuss boulevard
News Articles

11th Ward G.O.P. Club to Discuss Boulevard

The Eleventh Ward Republican Club, with president Edward Peard presiding, met to discuss the city's plans for a northeast boulevard from Eleventh and Linden Streets to River Avenue and East State Street, connecting with the proposed Linden Street bridge over the Cooper River. Camden Courier-Post, April 3, 1928.

·1 min read
Umpires' Asso. Set for Second Season, Camden Courier-Post, April 2, 1928
News Articles

Umpires’ Asso. Set for Second Season

Abe Corotis reports on the South Jersey Umpires' Association, organized by Frank Ryan and led by William J. Judd, as it began its second season with 24 members, Neil Deighan among them.

·1 min read