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 348

Philadelphia Inquirer, April 13, 1917 — Man Believed Demented Is Held
News Articles

Man Believed Demented Is Held

While members of the family of Frederick Reuling, of 1257 Kenwood avenue, Camden, were upstairs yesterday, they detected smoke. When they investigated they found a man in the living room before papers

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Charged with being Assailant
News Articles

Chared with Being the Assailant

Charged with being the assailant of Sergeant of Police George Anderson , who was knocked from at automobile by the chauffeur on March 2, when he attempted to make an arrest, Frank E Wade, 28 years old, of 415 North Fourth street was held in $500 bail by the Recorder yesterday.

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Newspaper clipping headlined Police Honor Comrade about the funeral of Camden policeman Philip Knauff
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Police Honor Comrade

Camden's police force, headed by Chief Gravenor, attended the funeral of policeman Philip Knauff, who died of pneumonia, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 18, 1917.

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Newspaper item headed "Mother of Ten Is Accused," Philadelphia Inquirer, March 17, 1917
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Mother of Ten Is Accused

Frank Dungan and Mrs. Katie C. Beach, arrested together at 128 Federal Street by State Detective Frank Miller, were held in $300 bail each by Justice of the Peace Frank Sheridan on a charge preferred by her husband, George Beach.

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Newspaper clipping headed Here and There in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 19, 1917
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Here and There in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer briefs from February 19, 1917: a police raid at 710 Sycamore Street, a scalded child on South Seventh Street, a burglary at 1529 Federal Street, and an arrest over stolen chickens.

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Here and There in Camden — Philadelphia Inquirer, February 11, 1917
News Articles

Here and There in Camden

Local briefs from Philadelphia Inquirer, February 11, 1917: Miss Eveline Pratley of 221 North 38th Street lost three fingers in a machine accident at 38th Street and Westfield Avenue. Also: a tugboat injury, a business incorporation, and a child's broken arm.

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Stole to Buy Funeral Garb, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 9, 1917
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Stole to Buy Funeral Garb

Harry Cross and Herbert Lamb of 741 Baxter Street admit stealing iron pipe from Charles W. Moore to afford clothes for a sister's funeral.

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Forced to Aid His Wife and Four, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 9, 1917, about Fred Keeler of 908 Howard Street.
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Forced to Aid His Wife and Four

A Philadelphia Inquirer item of February 9, 1917: Fred Keeler, 42, of 908 Howard Street, accused of giving his wife only $2 in three weeks, was ordered by Recorder Stackhouse to post a $500 bond guaranteeing his family $5 a week.

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Husband Lay Dead Beside Her — Philadelphia Inquirer, February 9, 1917
News Articles

Husband Lay Dead Beside Her

When Mrs. Charles W. Garrison awoke at 112 North 30th Street, East Camden, she found her 76-year-old husband had died in his sleep. Coroner Pratt attributed death to apoplexy, noting he had been dead several hours before she woke.

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Clipping "Anthrax Attacks Leather Worker", Philadelphia Inquirer, February 3, 1917.
News Articles

Anthrax Attacks Leather Worker

A new anthrax case struck John Ahearn, 17, of 1034 Lawrence Street, a leather worker at a Camden kid plant. The disease had killed Harry Cramford, 37, of 741 Woodland Avenue, earlier that week.

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