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 344

Bankers Daughter to Sell Thrift Stamps
News Articles

Bankers Daughter to Sell Thrift Stamps

The committee in charge of the sale of War Savings Certificates and Thrift Stamps has requested the Camden Safe Deposit & Trust Company to open a booth under the auspices of the Ladies Committee for the sale of stamps.

·1 min read
News Articles

Suspect Admits Robbery Charge

Camden Post-Telegram, April 26, 1918: Jonas Davis, 19, confesses to breaking into a Branch Street home and stealing a gold watch and chain; Policeman Clayton arrested him and Detective Hunt testified. Robert Fortune is held on a pocketbook larceny charge.

·1 min read
Couple Held for Trial
News Articles

Couple Held for Trial

Grover C. Bennett and Mrs. Maggie Toudy were taken into custody in a Broadway apartment house and held for trial on a complaint by Bennett's wife, Mrs. Ethel Bennett, of 606 South Fourth Street.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer article about a Camden sewer assessment hearing before Circuit Court Judge Lloyd
News Articles

Object to Sewer Assessments

When Circuit Court Judge Lloyd was asked in Camden yesterday to approve assessments made by commissioners for sewer construction in the Twelfth ward, counsel for abutting property owners interposed an objection.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer article reporting that Circuit Court Judge Lloyd called attention to Court Crier Charles MacCready's half century of service to the Camden county courts
News Articles

Veteran Court Clerk Honored

Immediately after the April term of the Camden county courts opened yesterday, Circuit Court Judge Lloyd, who presided with Common Pleas Judge Kates in the absence of Supreme Court Justice Garrison, called attention to the fact that Court Crier Charles MacCready had been associated with the administration of justice in the county for an even half century.

·1 min read
Here and There in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 23, 1918.
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer Camden briefs of March 23, 1918: shipyard worker William Briederback of 434 Viola Street burned about the eyes, William Rovner of 1117 Broadway overcome by gasoline fumes, and a man held on a lead-pipe theft charge.

·1 min read
Newspaper article, 'Grand Jury Drawn,' listing the Camden County grand jury, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 23, 1918
News Articles

Grand Jury Drawn

Sheriff Corson, of Camden, yesterday drew his grand jury, acting in conjunction with Jury Commissioner Lennox. From the list of thirty-five names drawn Supreme Court Justice Garrison will eliminate twelve, the balance to constitute the jury.

·1 min read
Shipyard Wages Lure to Firemen, Camden Post-Telegram clipping, March 22, 1918
News Articles

Shipyard Wages Lure to Firemen

Fire Chief Peter B. Carter reported six resignations, two deaths and one vacancy from the draft as the shipyards drew men from Camden's Fire Department; Lieutenant Walter Mertz was made captain and the Fire Committee appointed seven new firemen.

·2 min read
Clipping "Lad Killed by Truck", Philadelphia Inquirer, March 20, 1918.
News Articles

Lad Killed by Truck

Young John Kovasthik of 902 Woodland Avenue was fatally injured by an auto truck at Eighth and Sylvan Streets. The driver, Martin Flame of Philadelphia, was held on a manslaughter charge.

·1 min read
Compenstation Award
News Articles

Compensation Award

According to a ruling made by Referee Goas, of the Employers' Compensatian Bureau in Camden, the Poth Brewing Company must pay Christran Heitman, of 1631 Fillmore street , $10 a week for forty-two weeks for injuries received when he was struck in the eye with a hoop while he was riveting a keg.

·1 min read
Death notice for Caroline Laib, 2401 Howell Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 15, 1918
News Articles

Caroline Laib

Funeral notice for Caroline Laib, widow of John Laib Sr., who died in her 68th year at 2401 Howell Street in March 1918.

·1 min read