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 312

Newspaper column by Ben Courter, Along Memory Lane, Camden Courier-Post, February 27, 1928
News Articles

Along Memory Lane

Ben Courter's Along Memory Lane column recalls the death of retired Camden policeman William Harvey, who served at Kaighn Point from 1886 to 1912. Camden Courier-Post, February 27, 1928.

·1 min read
Courier-Post clipping, February 27, 1928: Eight Boys Are Held, Colored Fagin Sought.
News Articles

Eight Boys Are Held, Colored Fagin Sought

Eight Camden boys, including Edward and Jess Luczkiewicz of 1051 Louis Street, were committed to the detention home in February 1928 for stealing copper wire and battery plates; police sought the junk dealer said to have bought the goods.

·1 min read
Clipping: garage watchman foils whiskey theft at Beringer drug store, Camden Courier-Post, Feb. 27, 1928
News Articles

Garage Watchman Foils Whiskey Theft

A night attendant at Herman Z. Cutler's garage at Fifth and Arch streets saw a man carrying a box up an alley and called police, frustrating a second attempt within ten days by thieves to steal whisky from George Beringer's drug store at Fifth and Federal streets.

·2 min read
Fire-Fence Probe Refused by City, Camden Courier-Post, February 25, 1928
News Articles

Fire-Fence Probe Refused by City

City officials refused to investigate the fences on Segal Street that firemen said hampered them at the $225,000 Varoma Building fire at Second and Erie streets.

·1 min read
Headline: Youth Given 10 Days for Emulating Sniper, Camden Courier-Post, February 25, 1928
News Articles

Youth Given 10 Days for Emulating Sniper

Walter Anderson, 18, of Carteret Street near Wright Avenue, was sentenced to ten days in jail by Police Judge Bertman for imitating the "phantom sniper" near Newton Avenue and Carteret Street.

·1 min read
City employe kicked by horse, Camden Courier-Post, February 25, 1928
News Articles

City Employe Kicked by Horse Asks Damages

Charles Morgan, 732 Birch Street, a former city parks department laborer, will appear in Workmen's Compensation Court claiming disability from being kicked by a horse at the 112th Field Artillery Armory stables. The city is represented by assistant city solicitor Rocco Palese.

·1 min read
Gun Money Robbery Stock Photo
News Articles

Teller In Coma Held in $19,000 Theft At Bank

Burd S. Garrett, of Hillcrest, is Under Guard at West Jersey Hospital Believe He Took Poison as Discovery Neared East End Trust Protected; Man Returned to Home Today Semiconscious Burd S. Garrett, 42 years old, 200 Wayne avenue , Hillcrest, near Merchantville, was placed under technical arrest this afternoon as he was being admitted to the West Jersey Homeopathic Hospital .

·3 min read
Photograph showing the fence at Segal Street above Erie Street that hampered firemen, with inset showing blocked fireplug
News Articles

Fence That Hampered Firemen

A Courier-Post photo and sketch map show the fence at the end of Segal Street, above Erie Street, which firemen said hampered them at the $225,000 fire of February 23, 1928.

·1 min read
Newspaper ad "Rent a New Car" for the Drive It Yourself Co. Rent-A-Car Garage, 325 Arch St., with a cartoon man holding a sign reading "Rent a Car, Drive It Yourself."
News Articles

Rent a New Car

Camden Courier-Post advertisement of February 24, 1928, for the Drive It Yourself Co. Rent-A-Car Garage at 325 Arch Street, offering new cars at the lowest rates on credit.

·1 min read
Ghost Sniper - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

The Reign of Terror — And the Sniper

Editorial Page Of this much we are sure-the Phantom Sniper , whose activities have attracted attention far beyond the boundaries of Camden cannot indefinitely go on, challenging the public, and escape the consequences of his illegal actions.

·2 min read