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!

A dog, supposed to be mad, was shot by Policeman Anderson at Sixth and Mickle streets yesterday, after the animal had terrorized the neighborhood.
News Articles

A Dog Was Shot

Philadelphia Inquirer - February 18, 1897 A dog, supposed to be mad, was shot by Policeman Anderson at Sixth and Mickle streets yesterday, after the animal had terrorized the neighborhood.

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Newspaper article, Local Boxers at Lancaster
News Articles

Local Boxers at Lancaster

The Orange Street Opera House was well filled to-night to witness the boxing contests between Philadelphia pugilistic aspirants. There were six bouts, two of which were anything but tame.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, February 12, 1897 — Samuel Matthews of 224 Byron Street reported missing
News Articles

Over in Camden

Samuel Matthews, 50 years old, of 224 Byron Street, was reported to the police as missing.

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Inquirer boxing report "The Boxers' Lively Saturday Night" on Bull McCarthy beating Dan McConnell at the Southwark Athletic Club
News Articles

The Boxers' Lively Saturday Night

The wind-up at the Southwark Athletic Club last night between the redoubtable “Bull” McCarthy, of this city, and Dan McConnell, who glories in the fact that Camden is his place of habitat, should have satisfied the most exacting.

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Inquirer boxing notes (no headline printed) previewing Kid Lavigne vs. Owen Ziegler and the preliminaries including Dan McConnell
News Articles

Boxing News

There is plenty of good boxing scheduled for this week. To-night Kid Lavigne will meet Owen Ziegler at the Winter Circus.

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Big Wall Blown Down — Philadelphia Inquirer, January 6, 1897
News Articles

Big Wall Blown Down

A section of a three-and-a-half-story wall at the Camden Lighting and Heating Company's new boiler house on Cooper's Creek was blown down by a gust of wind, injuring night watchman John Mathis of Division Street.

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Camden Looks After Friendless Children - 1897-01-04
News Articles

Camden Looks After Friendless Children

Santa Visits Them Despite War, Many Churches Hold Christmas Services Camden's generous spirited citizens have responded to the appeal that was made by the Camden Home for Friendless Children , whose youthful inmates were threatened with having a very lean sort of a visit from Santa Claus.

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123 Arch Street - John Hertlein and 329 Arch Street - Rumpf - Camden Post January 29 1878
News Articles

Malt License

An 1897 Camden Post-Telegram report of the malt-drink licenses granted and refused by the Court of Common Pleas, including Henry Garren at 27 South 4th Street.

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Mary E. Gibbs arrested — Joint Alley, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 27, 1896
News Articles

Mary E. Gibbs Arrested

Mary E. Gibbs of Joint Alley was jailed in December 1896, charged with cutting William E. Allison of 232 Spruce Street during a knife quarrel.

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County-Collector-Ivins-Wiped-Out
News Articles

County Collector Ivins Wiped Out

County Collector Ivins wiped out every penny of the floating indebtedness of Camden county yesterday upon the payment of a $5000 note due the Central Trust Company.

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