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!

Camden National Bank 1
News Articles

The Camden National Bank

Camden Post - March 1, 1888 In New Quarters The Camden National Bank which has been temporarily located at 250 Kaighn avenue, begins business to-day In the handsome new building fast completed, at the N.W. corner of Second and Kaighn avenue.

·10 min read
Howard Woolston and Lewis Rothkogle, two lads, have been held in bail by the Mayor for larceny of pigeons from L. W. Frome, a fruit dealer.
News Articles

Larceny of Pigeons

Two Camden lads, Howard Woolston and Lewis Rothkogle, were held in bail by the Mayor for the larceny of pigeons from fruit dealer L. W. Frome.

·1 min read
News Articles

A New Player for the Browns?

St. Louis Globe-Democrat - October 26, 1887 Charles Alcott , short stop of the Ashland club, signed a contract to play with the St. Louis club to-day. He played with Harry Lyons and was highly recommended by the latter.

·1 min read
Camden News
News Articles

Camden News

Philadelphia Inquirer - July 28, 1887 Resignation of a Pastor, Meeting of a Council Committee and Other Items. Rev. E. V. Glover, for many years pastor of the Alloways Baptist Church, has resigned.

·2 min read
First Sergeant Augustus F. Mendell obituary, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 8, 1887
News Articles

Augustus F. Mendell

First Sergeant August B. Mendell, who was stricken with paralysis on the 27th, died at his home, 217 Birch Street. He was one of the oldest members of the Sixth Regiment.

·1 min read
New Camden Cemetery Purchase - 1887-07-08
News Articles

New Camden Cemetery Purchase

Philadelphia Inquirer - July 8, 1887 At a meeting of the trustees of the Camden Cemetery last night the special committee appointed to secure a new burial ground recommended the purchase of the land opposite to Evergreen Cemetery, at $700 per acre.

·1 min read
The Day in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, May 31, 1887
News Articles

The Day in Camden

Decoration Day observances by the Grand Army posts of Camden; a rose-and-smilax pillow inscribed 'To Our Late Chief' was placed on the grave of the late Chief of Police H. H. Franks.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, April 14, 1887 — A Night Alarm, page 1: Camden & Philadelphia Soap Works fire
News Articles

A Night Alarm

A fire at a Sixth and Mill Street stable spread to the Philadelphia and Camden Soap Works at 511–513 Main Street and damaged dwellings on Branch Street, causing $16,000 in losses on the night of April 13, 1887.

·3 min read
Franks at Rest, Camden Daily Telegram, January 6, 1887
News Articles

Franks at Rest

Account of the funeral of Chief of Police Harry Houston Franks, held at his home at Third and Royden Streets, with burial at Evergreen Cemetery.

·2 min read
Chief Franks Dead, Camden Daily Telegram, January 3, 1887
News Articles

Chief Franks Dead

Obituary of Chief of Police Harry Houston Franks, who died January 1, 1887 at his home at Third and Royden Streets; a post-mortem attributed his death to cancer of the oesophagus.

·3 min read