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 345

Newspaper clipping: "Speakeasies Raided", Philadelphia Inquirer, March 11, 1918
News Articles

Speakeasies Raided

On Mayor Ellis's orders Camden police raided two alleged speakeasies, holding Catherine Mooney of 850 Locust Street and Hezekiah Allen of 800 South Second Street for a hearing before Recorder Stackhouse.

·1 min read
No. 3 Fire Company Guests at Banquet - Camden Post-Telegram clipping
News Articles

No. 3 Fire Company Guests at Banquet

Superintendent William L. Miles of the MacAndrews & Forbes Company hosted a banquet for Engine Company No. 3 at their headquarters at Broadway and Emerald Street; Engineer Daniel Smith was among the company.

·2 min read
Clipping about the Fire Committee approving new firemen Russell Bowen and Julius Hubert, Camden Post-Telegram, January 21, 1918.
News Articles

Fire Committee Approves

City Council's Fire Committee approved Russell Bowen of 827 Woodland Avenue and Julius Hubert of 16 Jasper Street as firemen; both went on duty at No. 3 Engine House.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, January 6, 1918 — Nelson Hardy Jailed
News Articles

Nelson Hardy Jailed

Nelson Hardy was committed to the county jail in default of $2000 bail for attacking Mary Boullion of 1911 Kossuth Street.

·1 min read
Police Department Changes
News Articles

Police Department Changes

Philadelphia Inquirer - January 1, 1918 There were a number of changes in Camden's Police Department yesterday by Mayor Ellis . He appointed Sergeant John Golden successor to Captain Hugh Poyle [sic] , recently placed on the pension list.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: North Camden boys are responding to the colors
News Articles

North Camden Boys Enlist

A Camden Post-Telegram item from December 1917 listing North Camden men who enlisted the previous day, including Fireman William Walton of 520 Bailey Street.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Mrs. Josephine White dies at her Penn Street home, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 16, 1917
News Articles

Mrs. Josephine White

Philadelphia Inquirer, December 16, 1917: Mrs. Josephine White, wife of George Gerry White and a Camden resident of over fifty years, died at her home at 325 Penn Street.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "John Kennedy hurt in fall", Philadelphia Inquirer, December 16, 1917
News Articles

John Kennedy Hurt in Fall

John Kennedy, 16, of 1117 Locust Street, suffered severe scalp lacerations and probable fractures of both knees in a fall at the New York Shipyard and was taken to Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
Here and There in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 16, 1917: Camden firemen's and charities officers elected.
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer briefs from December 16, 1917: officers elected by the Firemen's Mutual Benevolent Association and the Associated Charities, and five-year-old Theodore Sipe of 405 Market Street in Cooper Hospital after possibly swallowing a marble.

·1 min read
Here and There in Camden
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Stephen Chancelly, three years old, of 631 South Fourth Street broke his shoulder in a fall from a chair and was taken to the Homeopathic Hospital.

·1 min read