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 341

Girl Killed by City Ambulance — Camden Post-Telegram, February 22, 1919
News Articles

Girl Killed by City Ambulance

Seven-year-old Barbara Johnson of 1896 River Avenue was killed when a Camden police ambulance transporting Richard Gardiner of 2820 Adams Street struck her in the street, as reported in the Camden Post-Telegram of February 22, 1919.

·2 min read
Gives Medal to Veteran Fireman, Camden Post-Telegram, February 1, 1919
News Articles

Gives Medal to Veteran Fireman

Engineer John A. Dold retired on a pension after twenty-five years in the Camden Fire Department, and the men of No. 7 Engine Company presented him with a gold medal and a silk American flag before he marched out Kaighn avenue.

·1 min read
Obituary headline "Thomas D. Childrey Dies", Philadelphia Inquirer, January 29, 1919.
News Articles

Thomas D. Childrey Dies

Thomas D. Childrey Sr., Camden builder and longtime head of the sheet metal firm T. D. Childrey & Son, died at his home at Haddon Avenue and Park Boulevard at age 61.

·1 min read
Sneak Thief Robs House, Philadelphia Inquirer, January 20, 1919
News Articles

Sneak Thief Robs House

A sneak thief entered the home of Mrs. Erdbrink at 1209 Kaighn Avenue, Camden, and carried away $19; City Detective Charles Whaland investigated.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Here and There in Camden", Philadelphia Inquirer, January 20, 1919
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Four Camden accidents reported January 20, 1919, including Emma Steck of 905 Point Street, hurt in a fall from a trolley car and taken to Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
1919 banquet program advertisement for J. T. Payne, Painter, 870 Fairview Street.
News Articles

J. T. Payne, Painter

A 1919 banquet program advertisement for J. T. Payne, painter, of 870 Fairview Street, Camden, offering graining and renovating as a specialty.

·1 min read
News Articles

Gladney Obituary

Philadelphia Public Ledger - October 31, 1918 GLADNEY - Oct. 30, GEORGE J. B. GLADNEY, aged 71. Relatives and friends invited to funeral services, Sat., 2 p. m., son's residence, Charles M. Gladney , 618 Point st. , Camden, N. J. Int. Harleigh Cem.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier clipping headlined Lost Once, Plaintiff Renews Damage Suit
News Articles

Lost Once, Plaintiff Renews Damage Suit

Fireman John S. McTaggart, of 1709 Broadway, renewed his $10,000 suit against coal dealer Richard McAllister for injuries received when a trolley car collided with one of McAllister's auto coal trucks on June 14, 1917. The case had been tried once before, and the plaintiff lost.

·1 min read
War Work Director Named
News Articles

War Work Director Named

Philadelphia Inquirer - October 27, 1918 F. Morse Archer , president of the National State Bank , is to direct the Camden drive for the war work fund.

·1 min read
News Articles

Found Senseless With Gas Flowing

Camden Courier-Post, October 1, 1918: Lucius Thomas, 50, is found unconscious from gas at 1875 Mulford Street and arrested by Motorcycle Policeman George Clayton on a charge of attempting suicide.

·1 min read