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!

Newspaper article previewing the McConnell vs. Matthews bout
News Articles

McConnell vs. Matthews Tonight

Dan McConnell, of Camden, and Matty Matthews, of New York, will meet tonight at the T. A. C. in a fifteen round bout, which should be a remarkably fine exhibition of the game.

·3 min read
Newspaper article, Bernstein Bests Fairburn
News Articles

Bernstein Bests Fairburn

The windup at the Nonpareil Athletic Club last night was between Joe Bernstein, of New York, and Joe Fairburn, of this city. It was a rattling six-round set-to in which the New Yorker clearly proved his superiority as a boxer.

·2 min read
Andrew J. Smith obituary — Philadelphia Inquirer, January 8, 1898
News Articles

Andrew J. Smith

Death notice for Andrew J. Smith of Camden, aged 67, who died January 5, 1898; the funeral was held from Zion M. E. Church near Iona, New Jersey.

·1 min read
Smith Dies From His Injuries — Philadelphia The Times, January 7, 1898
News Articles

Smith Dies From His Injuries

Night watchman Andrew J. Smith of the Camden Lighting and Heating Company died at Cooper Hospital from the injuries and exposure he suffered after falling twelve feet from a doorway at the company's plant on Cooper's Creek.

·1 min read
Fell and Lay Senseless — Philadelphia The Times, January 3, 1898
News Articles

Fell and Lay Senseless

Andrew J. Smith, night watchman at the Camden Lighting and Heating Company's new power plant on Cooper's Creek, fell twelve feet from a doorway and lay exposed in an areaway overnight before being discovered and taken to Cooper Hospital in critical condition.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, December 8, 1897
News Articles

Camden News Condensed

Mrs. F. Joseph Rouh, of Kossuth Street and Ferry Avenue, died from injuries received two weeks earlier when she fell down stairs.

·1 min read
Newspaper article on the testimonial to Bert Crowhurst
News Articles

Testimonial for Bert Crowhurst

All the boxing bouts for the testimonial to Bert Crowhurst, which is to be held at the Caledonian Club on Monday evening, have been arranged, and they include most of the best boxers in and around the city.

·2 min read
Firemen-Own-Stockton
News Articles

Firemen Own Stockton

Gallant Laddies Celebrated Thanksgiving With a Parade Representative firemen from New Jersey and Pennsylvania owned the Town of Stockton yesterday and the Knights of the Golden Eagle joined them in the annual Thanksgiving demonstration of the Volunteer Fire Department of the town.

·2 min read
Taylor Shot to Kill Him, Camden Daily Telegram, October 19, 1897
News Articles

Taylor Shot to Kill Him

Robert Taylor shoots Sumner Derrickson in a gambling dispute on Baxter Street; Derrickson taken to Cooper Hospital, Taylor arrested at the Federal Street ferry.

·1 min read
Alleged Threat to Shoot
News Articles

Alleged Threat to Shoot

Philadelphia Inquirer - October 18, 1897 William Lore was arrested in Stockton late Saturday night, charged with threatening to Shoot Israel Adams , proprietor of a saloon on Federal street .

·1 min read
Camdens Tragedy Still a Mystery - Philadelphia Inqurier - 1897-10-14
News Articles

Camden's Tragedy Still A Mystery

Philadelphia Inquirer - October 14, 1897 Two Men Arrested in Stockton, But They Easily Prove an Alibi. Police Are Puzzled Officials Believe the House Was Entered By a Burglar.

·9 min read