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 317

Dilapidated Mansion - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Reeve Mansion Ordered Razed by City Official

Commissioner Rhone Tells Building Inspector, Fire Marshal to Investigate DILAPIDATED STRUCTURE CALLED DEN OF THIEVES State Street Residents Complain After Robbers Use House as Rendezvous Termed a 'rendezvous of thieves, a haven for spooners and a general nightmare, the deserted and broken down mansion at Third and State Streets , was ordered torn down by Commissioner David S. Rhone , director of public safety.

·3 min read
News Articles

Charity Battles Attract Big Crowd

Camden Courier-Post - January 28, 1928 Fifteen sizzling amateur boxing bouts, together with nine acts of vaudeville, were presented to a capacity crowd in the St. Joan of Arc Church gym, Fairview.

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

Ghost Sniper Seen! Fires on 2 Girls, Bullet is Found

Camden Courier-Post - January 28, 1928 See Man Fleeing After Missile Crashes Through Window of Home "It's All Right Louie" He Cries on Street Crowded Merchantville Trolley Fired on But No Pellet is Found Camden's " phantom sniper " has been seen.

·5 min read
Camden Centennial will Start Feb 13. Week of Celebration at City's Convention Hall to Mark Anniversary
News Articles

Camden Centennial Will Start Feb. 13

Camden Courier-Post - January 28, 1928 Week of Celebration at City's Convention Hall to Mark Anniversary Camden's centennial will be observed during the week of February 13.

·3 min read
WCAM Players article about George A. Oberst's radio drama company, Courier-Post, January 27, 1928 (part 1)
News Articles

WCAM Players Back Little Theater Idea

The WCAM Players, a radio drama company directed by George A. Oberst of 1253 Princess Avenue, followed "It Was Christmas" with "Plain Jane" and set out to further the Little Theatre Movement in South Jersey. Camden Courier-Post, January 27, 1928.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: Reesman denies light fund shift, Camden Courier-Post, January 27, 1928
News Articles

Reesman Denies Light Fund Shift

Commissioner Clay W. Reesman denied Harry P. Pelouze's charge that leftover lighting funds were shifted to another department, saying the city simply lacked money for the extra lights the Broadway Business Men's Association wanted.

·2 min read
Missing Boy, 8, Just 'Camping' On Vacant Lot — Mrs. Anna Barber, 214 Ambler Street, Camden Courier-Post, January 27, 1928
News Articles

Missing Boy, 8, Just 'Camping' On Vacant Lot

It may be pretty cold, but 8-year-old William Barber doesn't consider the weather too chill for "camping out." His mother, Anna Barber of 214 Ambler Street, reported him missing to Camden police.

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

"Ghost Sniper" Fires on Store in Cramer Hill

Camden Courier-Post - January 26, 1928 Mystery Baffles Police as No Bullet is Found Inside Shop CLEAN HOLE IS CUT THROUGH DOOR GLASS Camden's " phantom sniper " has made his appearance in Cramer Hill .

·4 min read
Thieves Den - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

Robberies Laid to Old Mansion as Thieves Den

Marauders Declared Using Former Reeves Home on State St. as Lair POLICE TELL VICTIMS TO KEEP THEFTS QUIET Aroused Householders Threaten to Act As Own Cops Failure of city officials to heed repeated complaints that a deserted and dilapidated mansion at Third and State Streets is a "rendezvous of thieves, a haven for spooners, and a general nightmare" was blamed today by residents of that neighborhood for three robberies in one State Street block in two weeks.

·5 min read
Camden Cops Lose to Central Quintet - Camden Courier-Post, January 26, 1928
News Articles

Camden Cops Lose to Central Quintet

A January 26, 1928 Camden Courier-Post report on Central Camden's Municipal League win over the Camden Police quintet at Convention Hall, holding Ott Laxton to six points.

·1 min read
Street with Street Lights - AI Stock Photo
News Articles

New Street Lights

City Workers Start Laying Out System of "Safety Islands" on Cooper Street City employees today started installing a new system of traffic lights and laying out six "safety islands" on Cooper Street, under the direction of James A. Howell , acting chief of electrical bureau , and Charles Humes , captain of police.

·1 min read