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 314

John Carroll Honored by Fifth Ward Club - Camden Courier-Post, February 20, 1928
News Articles

John Carroll Honored by Fifth Ward Club

The Fifth Ward Republican Club honored county committeeman John H. Carroll on his recovery from Cooper Hospital, with speeches from Mayor Winfield S. Price and other city officials.

·1 min read
Runaway boys caught stealing milk, Camden Courier-Post, February 20, 1928
News Articles

Runaway Boys Find Mealtime Irregular

John Gillis, 16, of 517 Birch Street, and Artilo Alleva, 15, who ran away from home, told Police Judge Bertman that the biggest drawback was not eating regular. They were arrested while stealing bottles of milk from a doorstep.

·1 min read
2 Camden Men Held for Chicken Stealing, Camden Courier-Post, February 18, 1928.
News Articles

2 Camden Men Held for Chicken Stealing

William Hill, alias Dill, and Henry Wilson, both of 230 Taylor Avenue, were committed to the county jail in default of $2,000 bail each, charged with stealing chickens from Delaware township farmers.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Three youths arrested", Camden Courier-Post, February 17, 1928
News Articles

Detectives Holding 3 Burglar Suspects

City detectives questioned three youths believed responsible for a series of robberies; Francis Smith of 1120 Locust Street and Raymond Walker of 747 Woodland Avenue were arrested by Policeman James McTaggart at Broadway and Atlantic Avenue.

·1 min read
Camden Courier-Post clipping: 2 Men, 2 Girls Jailed
News Articles

2 Men, 2 Girls Jailed; Nabbed in Apartment

Two Gloucester men and two young Camden girls arrested in a Federal Street apartment house were found guilty of disorderly conduct before Judge Bernard Bertman. Policemen Walter Patton and Raymond Stark were summoned by the building's owner.

·1 min read
2 Boys Nabbed Here for Carrying Pistols — Camden Courier-Post, February 16, 1928
News Articles

2 Boys Nabbed Here for Carrying Pistols

Two boys were held by police and charged with carrying concealed .38 calibre revolvers after detectives found them loitering near the Sears-Roebuck Company on Bridge Entrance road.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: City Officials Go to Harbors Hearing, Camden Courier-Post, February 15, 1928
News Articles

City Officials Go to Harbors Hearing

Camden city officials and delegates of the South Jersey Port Commission and Chamber of Commerce leave for Washington to attend a Rivers and Harbors Committee hearing on deepening the Delaware River channel for the planned $2,000,000 marine terminal. Camden Courier-Post, February 15, 1928.

·1 min read
Allen Tops Eddie Reid
News Articles

Allen Tops Eddie Reid

Camden Courier-Post - February 14, 1928 Atlantic City, Feb. 14. Roxie Allen , Camden lightweight, defeated Eddie Reid, New York negro. in the windup battle at the Northside A. C. here last night.

·1 min read
'Victims' of Sniper Held for Explosion, Camden Courier-Post, February 13, 1928
News Articles

'Victims' of Sniper Held for Explosion

The Camden Courier-Post of February 13, 1928 reports that George Zimmerman and John Connors, who had claimed they were wounded by the "phantom sniper" near the Federal street bridge, were held for the grand jury on charges of having explosives after City Detective McGrath testified to a mysterious blast at Zimmerman's home.

·2 min read