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 335

News Articles

$3000 Man's Lure to Fire Building

Boleslaw Ziemba confessed to Captain of Detectives Schregler that he set fire to 1426 Broadway at the instigation of his employer John Makel, so Makel could recover $3,000 Ziemba had put into the business.

·2 min read
News Articles

Sergeant George Anderson Ill

Camden Courier - January 9, 1922 The many friends of Sergeant George W. Anderson of the Third District will be sorry indeed to learn that he is again seriously ill at his South Camde n home, 582 Clinton Street .

·1 min read
News Articles

Removed to Hospitals

The police ambulance removed the following residents of South Camden to the hospitals late on Saturday afternoon: West Jersey Homeopathic — William Perry, aged 62 years, 1725 Fillmore Street; Albert Biron, 24 years old, 1108 Baring Street.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping, "Chief Accuses Four Officers in Vice Probe," Camden Post-Telegram, January 4, 1922.
News Articles

Chief Accuses Four Officers in Vice Probe

Chief Gravenor charged City Detective George Murray and Policemen Ira Hall, William Draper and Tony Latorre with unbecoming conduct, rule violations and neglect of duty after City Counsel Bleakly's inquiry into vice conditions.

·6 min read
Fire Department Promotions, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 24, 1921
News Articles

Fire Department Promotions

A Philadelphia Inquirer news brief of December 24, 1921 reporting that Captain Charles Todd was placed on pension and Lieutenant Charles Watkins of No. 5 Company was advanced to a captaincy.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping reporting the wedding of Marie Elsie Neumann and George W. Taylor Jr. at 24 Church Street.
News Articles

Wedding of Marie Elsie Neumann

Marie Elsie Neumann married George W. Taylor, Jr., at 24 Church Street, Camden, in the room in which she was born. Philadelphia Inquirer, December 9, 1921.

·1 min read
Gunning at Indian Mills, Camden Daily Courier, November 16, 1921
News Articles

Gunning at Indian Mills

Lieutenant Scott Franklin and veteran fireman Fritz Miller of the Pine street engine company go gunning at Indian Mills, Burlington county, in this 1921 Camden Daily Courier item.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, "Camden Business Block Threatened," about a Kaighn Avenue fire, November 9, 1921
News Articles

Camden Business Block Threatened

A fire in Neil Zeidman's men's furnishing store at 437 Kaighn Avenue spread to the Almar store, causing $28,000 in damage; Fire Lieutenant Harry Chambers of South Eighth Street was overcome by smoke.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, November 9, 1921 -- Watchman Shot, Robbers Sought
News Articles

Watchman Shot, Robbers Sought

Watchman John Brazier is shot through the chest resisting two robbers at Fourth and Line streets; Captain Schregler links the pair to another Camden holdup.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping reporting Thomas Sparks held up, Philadelphia Inquirer, November 7, 1921
News Articles

Thomas Sparks Held Up

Thomas Sparks, 28, of 652 Locust Street, was taken to Cooper Hospital with a pistol wound of the knee after being held up and robbed at Second and Pine Streets; James Wilson was arrested on suspicion.

·1 min read