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!

Grand Jury Investigates Lottery Policy Cases newspaper clipping
News Articles

Grand Jury Investigates Lottery Policy Cases

The Camden Grand Jury investigated a number of lottery policy cases, among them that of Edward Collins of the Third Ward, whose place had been raided by Police Captain Stanley; witness William N. Souder was charged with perjury and held in $500 bail.

·1 min read
Cincinnati Post, September 19, 1898, item on Danny Green's gold watch
News Articles

Dan Green Presented Gold Watch

A Cincinnati Post notice records that Dan Green of Tom Burns' Orphans, a Camden man, was presented with a gold watch during the Chicago-Philadelphia series, and recalls Camden as the home of the Merritts.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, September 3, 1898, Passed Balls
News Articles

Passed Balls

A Philadelphia Inquirer notes column quotes Chicago manager Tom Burns praising "Danny" Green as a pacemaker, and adds that Green is a West Jersey boy who had played for years on teams along the eastern bank of the Delaware, including Bordentown and Camden.

·2 min read
Frozen from Below - 1898-08-28 - Helena Independent
News Articles

Frozen from Below

Helena Independent - August 28, 1898 Theory Advanced by Miners in the Klondike to Explain Great Depths of Frozen Ground.

·6 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, August 23, 1898 — Fred George Gregory drowned in the Delaware River
News Articles

Over in Camden

Fred George Gregory, 6, of 212 Byron Street, drowned in the Delaware River while fishing at the head of Third Street.

·1 min read
Chase for Crap-Shooters newspaper clipping
News Articles

Chase for Crap-Shooters

A squad of policemen under Captain Stanley raided crap shooters along Camden's river front, capturing thirteen prisoners at the Arch Street lumber yards and Second and Clinton Streets before an accidental revolver shot let the rest escape.

·1 min read
Camden Safe Deposit and Trust Company Elects Officers
News Articles

Camden Safe Deposit and Trust Company Elects Officers

The Camden Safe Deposit and Trust Company, Camden's leading financial institution, has elected these officers: President, William C. Dayton; vice-president, Alexander C. Wood; treasurer, George W. Wakefield; trust officer, Benjamin C. Reeve; solicitor, Samuel H. Grey.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Telegram clipping, May 12, 1898, Side-Splitting Farce Goes On - Police Committee hearings
News Articles

Side-Splitting Farce Goes On

The Camden Daily Telegram's account of the Police Committee's hearings on charges against city policemen, at which Dr. “Mark Hanna” Davis was noted as absent from the Reformers' deliberations.

·6 min read
News Articles

Stockton Liquor Licenses

At the April 26, 1898, meeting of Stockton Town Council, a number of retail liquor licenses were granted, including one to B. L. Buenzle.

·1 min read
Springfield Massachusetts Republican, February 7, 1898, Sporting News and Gossip
News Articles

Sporting News and Gossip

Springfield pitcher Harry Dolan talks to a Boston Herald reporter about manager Tom Burns and the Springfield club, praising catcher Nichols, "Big Dan" Brouthers, and left fielder "Dan" Green, whom he calls one of the fastest players living.

·4 min read
Newspaper article, M'Connell Outclassed by Matthews
News Articles

McConnell Outclassed by Matthews

The fifteen-round bout at the T. A. C. last night between Matty Matthews, of New York, and Dan McConnell, of Camden, came to an unsatisfactory ending in the middle of the seventh round, when Referee George Hendley decided that Matthews had fouled, and thereby declared McConnell the winner.

·3 min read