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 333

Walt Whitmans Home in Camden - 1922-05-16
News Articles

Walt Whitman's Home in Camden

Editorial in The New York Herald, Monday May 15 [1922] The City Council of Camden, New Jersey, has voted that the home in which Walt Whitman passed the later years of his life and in which on March 26, 1892, he died shall not be destroyed but shall be preserved intact on the site where it stands.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Suit Over Fallen Boiler", Philadelphia Inquirer, April 30, 1922
News Articles

Suit Over Fallen Boiler

Mrs. Frances Waters sued Jacob Barag, a grocer at 1121 Louis Street, Camden, for $10,000 in April 1922 over head injuries from a boiler that fell from a hook; her husband William sued for $5000.

·1 min read
Iron Bars Prevent Rescue of Boy Who Dies in Camden Fire, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 28, 1922
News Articles

Iron Bars Prevent Rescue of Boy Who Dies in Camden Fire

A Philadelphia Inquirer report of April 28, 1922 on a fatal fire at 1009 Broadway, Camden, in which iron bars from the building's former use as a bank prevented the rescue of a sleeping boy. Six firemen, including Captain Charles Watkins of No. 7 Engine Company, were injured.

·4 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, April 18, 1922 -- Charged with Homicide in Shooting
News Articles

Charged with Homicide in Shooting

Antonio Speer is held without bail on a homicide complaint by Captain of Detectives Schregler after fatally shooting Clinton R. Roberts, whom he caught robbing his hennery.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier advertisement: Important! Bornstein Electric Co. now at Fifth and Pine Sts.
News Articles

Important!

A Camden Daily Courier advertisement in which Bornstein Electric Co., formerly at 930 Broadway, announced its new location at the southeast corner of Fifth and Pine Streets with a full line of electrical goods, wholesale and retail.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier brief on a snapper dinner debate at Engine Company No. 6, April 7, 1922
News Articles

Snapper Dinner Debate

Members of Engine Company No. 6, Front and Linden streets, argued over how to prepare stewed snapper; the dispute was settled by cutting off both the tail and the head.

·1 min read
Campbell Best Scorer, Philadelphia Evening Public Ledger, March 22, 1922
News Articles

Campbell Best Scorer

"Soup" Campbell of Camden led the Eastern Basketball League in scoring with 171 second-half points and set a league record of 135 field goals for the season; the scoring list also includes Kerr, Dolin, Steele and both Deighans.

·1 min read
News Articles

Action on Camden Saloons Denied

Assistant Chief Edward S. Hyde, temporarily heading the Camden police department, denies that patrolmen listing the names of saloon patrons — a Federal Prohibition enforcement measure — are acting under any police orders.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Public Ledger, March 16, 1922 — Albert Brown missing from home
News Articles

Missing From His Home

Albert Brown, 15, of 728 North Tenth street, Camden, was found by detectives in a shack on North Eighth street after going missing the previous Sunday.

·1 min read
Triple Tie in League - Philadelphia Inquirer, February 5, 1922
News Articles

Triple Tie in League

A Pennsylvania Railroad League basketball report from the Philadelphia Inquirer noting Ott Laxton's Pavonia team in a three-way tie for first place after a loss to the Firemen at the Camden Y.M.C.A.

·1 min read