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 318

Money Stock Photo
News Articles

Rotary Club Lends to 16 College Boys

Eight Camden Youths, Now Graduates, Are Repaying Loans Eight Camden boys last September were able to continue their studies in college and universities because, back in 1923, a Camden service club established a loan fund to aid worthy students.

·2 min read
News Articles

'Chick Hunt's Girl' Gone

Camden Courier-Post - January 25, 1928 Husband Dismissed When Brunette of Sixth Ward Shooting Fails To Appear in Court Back into the notice of Camden's Police Court, but not into its courtroom, Katherine Rosalie came today.

·1 min read
News Articles

Charles Danenhower - Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - January 24, 1928 Charles Danenhower, resident of Camden for nearly fifty years, died early this morning at his home on Park Avenue, Merchantville. He had been ill for nearly four weeks, suffering from the ailments of old age.

·1 min read
Two newspaper portraits of boys, William Watkins above and Richard Richardson below, January 1928
News Articles

2 Boys Nearly Drown as Dog Rescue Fails

Nine-year-old Richard Richardson of Princess Avenue spent 39 minutes in an icy Cooper River tributary near Pine Street after trying to save a stray puppy; 13-year-old William Watkins brought him a rope.

·4 min read
Stanley, Towers and Grand theater ads under "Direction Stanley Company of America," Courier-Post, Jan. 24, 1928
News Articles

Direction Stanley Company of America

Stanley Company of America theater advertisements from the Camden Courier-Post of January 24, 1928, for the Stanley at Broadway and Market, the Towers at Broadway and Pine, and the Grand at Broadway and Mickle.

·1 min read
News Articles

Moonshine Raid at 1066 Thurman Street

Police raiders found a 25-gallon still, three gallons of moonshine and a set of coils at the home of Stanley Saposki, 1066 Thurman Street, and arrested Frank Beuclawski of Mount Ephraim Avenue on a liquor charge.

·1 min read
Building committee of the Polish American Citizens Club, January 1928
News Articles

Buy Polish Citizens Clubhouse

A January 1928 Camden Courier-Post photograph of the building committee of the Polish American Citizens Club, which had just completed the purchase of its clubhouse at 1559 Mount Ephraim Avenue for a reported $18,000.

·1 min read
News Articles

Business Men Form Third National Bank

Financial Institution Backed by East Camden Interests Faith in the progress of East Camden is reflected in announcement of the organization of the Third National Bank and Trust company , the city's newest banking institution, to be opened in April or May in a building at the northeast corner of Twenty-seventh Street and Westfield Avenue .

·2 min read
Slot Machine Stock Photo
News Articles

Dealer Denies Thieves Took Slot Machine

Bertman Doubts His Story After He 'Shifts' Loot to Cigars Is liable to a fine on gambling machine Grand Jury Probe is Hinted by Judge - Reporter Takes Stand Lewis Shectman changed his story in police court today and declared that it was only a box of cigars, not a gambling machine that was stolen from his store, 708 Broadway, yesterday by two bandits.

·4 min read