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!

Late 1930s photo of Camden Police Department vehicles lined up on Argonne Street in front of Convention Hall. Photo courtesy of the Lillian Colsey Slomick family.
Streets

Argonne Street

Argonne Street, named for the World War I Battle of the Argonne Forest, ran one block between St. Mihiel Street and Memorial Avenue. It was demolished when Campbell Soup acquired the land to build their corporate headquarters.

·2 min read
Intersection of Mount Vernon Street and Maurice Street, 2006.
Streets

Maurice Street

Maurice Street, formerly Ann Street, runs south from Mount Vernon Street to Kaighn Avenue in Camden, site of the Wesley A.M.E. Church at Sycamore Street.

·2 min read
1946 map of Camden showing the Fairview section and Alabama Road
Streets

America Road

America Road is a street in two sections: one running from West Octagon Road east to Yorkship Square, the other running from the opposite side of Yorkship Square eastward, ending at East Octagon Road.

·1 min read
Streets

Ambler Street

Ambler Street was a small street in South Camden that ran from Cooper Street north to Penn Street. There were still homes on Ambler Street as late as 1924, but no occupied addresses by 1947.

·1 min read
906-san-2.jpg
Streets

Allen's Court

Allen's Court, sometimes referred to as Allen Court, ran south to north parallel to North 2nd Street. The court had six houses, originally numbered 102–112, and was gone by 1947.

·2 min read
1891-Sanborn-Map-Camden-Sheet-1
Streets

Alder Street

Alder Street, also known as Ann Street, was a small street in South Camden between South 9th and South 10th Streets. Both blocks were obliterated by the construction of Interstate Route I-676.

·2 min read
House at 207 North 42nd Street, Camden, NJ
Streets

42nd Street

Forty-Second Street runs from Jersey Avenue to Camden Avenue in East Camden, crossing Westfield Avenue and High Street, then picks up again for one block between Federal Street and Fremont Street.

·4 min read
Ace Vacuum Cleaner Service, 447 North 41st Street — New Jersey Bell Yellow Pages, 1955
Streets

41st Street

Forty-First Street runs from Jersey Avenue to Poplar Avenue in East Camden, crossing Westfield Avenue and High Street, then picks up again at Federal Street for one block to Myrtle Avenue.

·6 min read
Foster's Launderette, 243 North 40th Street — New Jersey Bell Yellow Pages, 1955
Streets

40th Street

Fortieth Street runs south from Poplar Avenue to Jersey Avenue in East Camden, crossing Westfield Avenue and High Street, then picks up again at Federal Street for one block to Myrtle Avenue.

·4 min read
39th St street-name sign at Federal Street, Pennsauken, March 2004
Streets

39th Street

Thirty-Ninth Street runs south from Jersey Avenue to Camden Avenue in East Camden, crossing Westfield Avenue and High Street. City directory and newspaper records document occupants of the 200, 300 and 400 blocks from 1924 to 1947.

·2 min read
Herman John King, U.S. Navy, U.S.S. Florida
Streets

37th Street

Thirty-Seventh Street runs south from Jersey Avenue to Camden Avenue in East Camden, crossing Westfield Avenue and High Street. City directory and newspaper records document occupants of its 200, 300, and 400 blocks between 1900 and 1956.

·3 min read
North 36th Street and Farragut Avenue - Mosquitoes - 1964
Streets

36th Street

Thirty-Sixth Street runs from the Delaware River south, across River Road, to Federal Street, and forms Camden's northern border with Pennsauken Township at intervals along its length. It became part of Camden when Stockton Township was annexed in 1899, and had been known in Pennsauken as Cove Avenue into the 1890s.

·16 min read