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!

Over the River, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 27, 1880
News Articles

Over the River

Before Justices Cassady and Ayers, a seized boat and fishing net were ordered sold; Officers Gallagher, Barr, Franks and Streeper had made the capture, and Constable Streeper was thrown overboard in a later encounter.

·1 min read
Over-The-River-2
News Articles

Over the River

Camden City Council - An adjourned meeting of Camden City Council was held yesterday afternoon at half past four o'clock for the purpose of acting on and disposing of miscellaneous business, President Abels in the chair.

·3 min read
Over the River, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 9, 1880
News Articles

Over the River

Report of an adjourned Camden City Council meeting; the bonds of the city constables, including H. H. Franks, were examined and accepted.

·2 min read
The Kittyhawk Mystery - The Baltimore Sun - 1880-01-08
News Articles

The Kittyhawk Mystery

The Kittyhawk Mystery—Commissioner Rogers yesterday held and examination in the case of the three Manilla seamen of the wrecked schooner M & E Henderson , with a cargo of phosphate from Bull river, bound to Baltimore.

·3 min read
Murder at Sea - New Haven Register - December 15, 1879
News Articles

Murder at Sea

New Haven Register - December 15, 1879 Captain Swain of the Schooner M & A Henderson , Killed by his Crew.

·2 min read
The-Supposed-Murder-at-Sea-Philadelphia-Inquirer-1879-12-15
News Articles

The Supposed Murder at Sea

Philadelphia Inquirer - December 15, 1879 As will be seen on telegraphic columns, another of the crew of the schooner M. and E. Henderson , which was wrecked on Kitty Hawk Beach, has been arrested in Baltimore.

·3 min read
Foul Play - Philadelphia Inquirer - 1879-12-13
News Articles

Foul Play

Arrest of Sailors on Suspicion of Killing their Officers Baltimore, Dec. 12—Abraham Anneta, a West India negro, and Francis Adams, a Manilla man, sailors, were arrested this afternoon by Deputy United States Marshal Hamilton on warrants issued by United States Commissioner Rogers on charge of murder on the high seas, and attempting to destroy the schooner M. E. Henderson , of Philadelphia, bound to Baltimore with a cargo of phosphate from Bull river.

·2 min read
Over The River
News Articles

Over the River

Philadelphia Inquirer - March 16, 1878 Camden City Council - The annual meeting of Camden City Council was held last evening for the purpose of organizing for the years 1878-9. The votes for city and ward officers were read.

·2 min read
Over the River
News Articles

Over the River

A May 2, 1877 Philadelphia Inquirer column of Camden news, including a planned canal through the Delaware sandbar off Cooper's Point for ferry boats and the City Hall dispute before the Chancellor.

·3 min read
Saint Valentines Day - 1877-02-14
News Articles

St Valentine's Day

Of late years the custom of sending valentines has greatly decreased, since in former times on St. Valentine's day, which, by the way falls on to-day, it was found necessary to employ extra carriers on the mail routes to deliver letters; now the regular force is capable of doing the work.

·1 min read