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 340

Newspaper clipping, Camden Playgrounds Open Tuesday, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 29, 1919
News Articles

Camden Playgrounds Open Tuesday

The Board of Recreation Commissions arranged to open the Camden playgrounds on Tuesday; the Line street ground was abandoned and its apparatus moved to the Liberty school ground at Eighth and Spruce streets, with F. A. Finkeldey as supervisor.

·1 min read
Victim of Huns' Brutality Enlists — Henry Dworanczky, 1104 Alder Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 22, 1919
News Articles

Victim of Huns' Brutality Enlists

Enlisting in the Army at Camden yesterday Henry Dworanczky, 20 years old, of 1104 Alder street, seeks revenge on the Germans for treatment accorded him while he was held in a Hun prison camp.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, June 19, 1919 — Ralph Burrough drowned swimming to yacht in Delaware River
News Articles

Drowned Swimming to Yacht

Ralph Burrough, 18, drowned in the Delaware River while swimming to a yacht; his body was recovered by J.R. McDonald of 528 Byron Street and Christopher Moll of 610 York Street.

·1 min read
Camden Does Honor to Heroes' Memory newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden Does Honor to Heroes' Memory

Camden's 1919 Memorial Day observance placed twelve gold star wreaths for the 134 county men who died in the war. Marshal Arthur Stanley led a platoon of police and Mayor Ellis in the march to the Y.M.C.A. under the Court of Honor.

·2 min read
308 North 27th Street, Camden Post-Telegram, May 23, 1919
News Articles

Frank Worthington Dies

The Camden Post-Telegram reports the death of Frank Worthington, 12, son of Mrs. Mary Worthington and the late Fire Chief Charles Worthington, of spinal meningitis; he was a nephew of the J. E. Cullingfords of 308 North 27th Street.

·1 min read
Advertisement for Anthony J. Oberst, Realtor, real estate and insurance at 1253 Princess Avenue, 1919
News Articles

Anthony J. Oberst

Advertisement announcing that Anthony J. Oberst, real estate and insurance broker and member of the Camden Real Estate Board, is now located at 1253 Princess Avenue, corner of Kaighn Avenue. Camden Post-Telegram, May 19, 1919.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer death notice, April 23, 1919: Elizabeth Dollie Glocke, funeral at 1173 Morton Street, Camden
News Articles

Glocke — April 20

Death notice for Elizabeth Dollie Glocke (nee Kreutzberger), 28, wife of William H. Glocke, with funeral services at the home of her brother-in-law Charles Connors, 1173 Morton Street.

·1 min read
Building permits notice for Leonard Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 20, 1919
News Articles

Building Permits

Permits for thirty-eight new brick dwellings on Leonard Street were issued by Building Inspector Day in March 1919, in a recently-developed section of East Camden.

·1 min read
Funeral of Sergeant Reader, Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, March 2, 1919
News Articles

Funeral of Sergeant Reader

Six former members of the Camden police force served as pallbearers at the funeral of former Sergeant of Police John Reader, with services at his son's home at 1135 Haddon Avenue.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, March 2, 1919 — Here and There in Camden, Albert Garrison
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Albert Garrison of 2211 South Tenth Street was treated at Cooper Hospital after his face was lacerated by a falling casting.

·1 min read