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!

Camdens News Budget - 1889-02-15
News Articles

Camden's News Budget

Philadelphia Inquirer - February 15, 1889 Miss Annie Eisenhardt , the young nurse who was assaulted in the Cooper Hospital about two weeks ago, has fully recovered and will probably leave the institution this or next week.

·1 min read
Dots and Dashes - 1889-02-01
News Articles

Dots and Dashes

Kansas City Times - February 1, 1889 The winter in Alaska so far has been the worst on record because of severe storms. Hunters and traders have especially suffered.

·1 min read
No Nearer Solution - 1889-02-01
News Articles

No Nearer Solution

Prosecutor Jenkins, accompanied by Dr. Walsh, yesterday afternoon paid another visit to the Cooper Hospital and held a conversation with Miss Annie Eisenhardt, the nurse who was assaulted early last Saturday morning. The Prosecutor told her of the many conflicting parts in her story with an idea of abstracting from her a confession.

·1 min read
The-Nurse-Inflicted-Her-Own-Injuries-1889-01-31
News Articles

The Nurse Inflicted Her Own Injuries

Kansas City Star - January 31, 1889 Philadelphia, Jan. 31—It is now the popular belief that the Camden hospital nurse, Annie Eisenhart , inflicted her own injuries.

·1 min read
The Camden Mystery - 1889-01-30
News Articles

The Camden Mystery

Nurse Eisenhardt , of the Cooper Hospital, Makes an Important Admission Miss Annie Eisenhardt , the injured nurs [sic] at the Cooper Hospital, made an important admission yesterday to Doctor Farrett, the resident physician.

·2 min read
Night Nurse Will Recover - 1889-01-28
News Articles

Night Nurse Will Recover

Trenton Times - January 28, 1889 The physicians say that Annie Eisenhardt , the night nurse in the Cooper hospital at Camden, who was assaulted, will recover. There is still no clew [sic] to her assailant.

·1 min read
In-White-Chapel-Style-1889-01-28
News Articles

In White Chapel Style

Wheeling, West Virginia Register - January 28, 1889 A Fiendish Assault on the Cooper Hospital Nurse. Camden, NJ. January 26 - Miss Annie Eisenhart is the head nurse at the Cooper Hospital .

·2 min read
Murder Nurse Stock Photo
News Articles

The Camden Mystery.

Philadelphia Inquirer - January 28, 1889 Nurse Eisenhardt Describes the Murderous Assault. Doubt As to the Means of Escape The Night Watchman Gives His Statement, and the Police Admit That As Yet They Have No Clue.

·5 min read
Assaulting-the-Nurse-NY-Times-1889-01-26
News Articles

Assaulting the Nurse

A Woman Badly Cut and Beaten and the Watchman Arrested Philadelphia, Jan 26.— Annie Eisenhardt, a nurse in the Cooper Hospital, in Camden, N.J.

·3 min read
Engines in Collision
News Articles

Engines in Collision

Frederick H. Kuebler, brakeman of 1103 Baring Street, was among three Pennsylvania Railroad workers injured when two engines collided due to a misplaced switch near Swanson Street.

·1 min read
Disorderly House Raid, 502 Branch Street — Philadelphia Inquirer, July 23, 1888
News Articles

Disorderly House Raid

Police raided Emma Dangerfield's disorderly house on Branch Street, arresting the proprietress and multiple others; hearing held before the Mayor.

·1 min read
Building Boom in Camden — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1888
News Articles

Building Boom in Camden

James Cox has begun six two-story brick houses on Cox Street, below Second, as part of a broader construction boom across Camden. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1888.

·1 min read