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 326

East Camden Notes newspaper clipping
News Articles

East Camden Notes

East Camden neighborhood notes from the Camden Post-Telegram of July 13, 1925: a building and loan meeting at St. Joseph's Hall, shore vacations and a motor tour to Niagara Falls and Canada.

·1 min read
Camden Post-Telegram, June 26, 1925 — Parents Must Pay for Prank of Boys
News Articles

Parents Must Pay for Prank of Boys

Theodore and Leon Emerle of 1530 South Tenth Street were caught pulling waterlilies at Forest Hill Park lagoon by guard Crawford Smith; their parents were ordered to pay for the destroyed plants.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: THIEVES GET $30 CASH AND $50 SILVERWARE, Camden Evening Courier, June 24, 1925
News Articles

Thieves Get $30 Cash and $50 Silverware

Two robberies reported to Camden police on June 24, 1925: $30 in cash from the Botts Auto Supply Co. at 1142 Kaighn Avenue and $50 in silverware from Frank Grover's Elm Street home.

·1 min read
2 Men Denied Bail in Ward Shooting, Camden Courier, June 12, 1925
News Articles

2 Men Denied Bail in Ward Shooting

Edward C. Dillon and Edward Brennan were held without bail by Recorder Cleary on charges of atrocious assault with intent to kill, after Policeman Robert Ward was shot investigating suspicious men near Sixth and Everett streets.

·1 min read
Ward Shooting Thwarted Bank Theft, Cops Say, Camden Courier, June 8, 1925 (first crop)
News Articles

Ward Shooting Thwarted Bank Theft, Cops Say

Police said the shooting of Policeman Robert Ward on Sixth Street near Everett Street frustrated a planned robbery of the new bank at Westville; Edward Dillon and Edward Brannin were held while five bandits escaped in Fred Klosterman's car. Camden Courier, June 8, 1925.

·3 min read
Camden Courier clipping, "Robberies Involving $200 Reported Here," June 8, 1925.
News Articles

Robberies Involving $200 Reported Here

Two thefts totaling about $200 were reported: $50 taken from William Liebeknecht's home at 1380 Whitman Avenue, and a diamond-set platinum watch missed by Miss Helen Meksa of Mt. Ephraim Avenue. Camden Courier, June 8, 1925.

·1 min read
Camden Courier front-page clipping, "2 Men Caught But 5 Escape After Shooting," June 6, 1925.
News Articles

2 Men Caught But 5 Escape After Shooting

Policeman Robert Ward lay dying after a gang of seven Philadelphia bandits shot him on Sixth Street; two were captured, and five forced autoist Fred Klosterman of 1123 Whitman Avenue to drive them to Gloucester. Camden Courier, June 6, 1925.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: Fireman Gets Hearing Tomorrow for Drinking, Camden Daily Courier, May 4, 1925
News Articles

Fireman Gets Hearing Tomorrow for Drinking

Capt. W. Scott Franklin of Fire Engine House No. 1, Fourth and Pine streets, was to get a hearing before Commissioner Hitchner on charges of being intoxicated while on duty, after a suspension the previous week.

·1 min read
Handcuffs Stock Photo
News Articles

Sorcerer Held on New Charge

Camden, N.J., April 18.— The charge of suspicion of murder under which H.H. Hyghcock , alleged "Voodoo doctor" was held by the police for more than a week was dropped today and he was held in $2500 bail on charges of obtaining money under false pretenses and illegally practicing medicine.

·1 min read
Police Stock Photo
News Articles

Camden Voodo Man Once Kept Den in Norfolk, VA

Police Learn Hyghcock Ran Another Underground Hotel Years Ago Driven Out of Town Came to Philadelphia Excavation of Cellar Here for Bodies Starts as Owner Gives Consent Mayor King to Direct Armed with picks, axes, and shovels a detail of police and firemen started this afternoon to tear up the underground voodoo den of E.H.H. Hyghcock , 413-15 Liberty Street .

·3 min read