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 356

Dies After Washing
News Articles

Dies After Washing

Mrs. Theresa Mattix, 63, of 603 North Fourth Street, Camden, collapsed and died after doing a washing in July 1915; the coroner attributed her death to cerebral hemorrhage brought on by the heat.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, July 30, 1915 — Peter Balloon of 915 Jefferson Street injured at New York Shipbuilding plant
News Articles

Camden At A Glance

Peter Bolione, 36, of 915 Jefferson Street, suffered a compound arm fracture when a pneumatic drill kicked at the New York Shipbuilding plant.

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Newspaper clipping: Negro Beat Him Up, He Says, a 1915 Philadelphia Inquirer item about John Trail of 1160 Thurman Street.
News Articles

Negro Beat Him Up, He Says

John Trail, 35, of 1160 Thurman Street was taken to Cooper Hospital with head wounds after he told police he was struck with a club and robbed of $1.70 on Kaighn Avenue near Eighth Street.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, July 17, 1915 — 4 Held for Man's Death
News Articles

4 Held for Man's Death

Four men were held without bail on manslaughter charges following the death of John Mabelski after a brawl near Railroad and Ferry avenues.

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To Improve Sewerage Disposal, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 1, 1915
News Articles

To Improve Sewerage Disposal

Work began on a sewerage disposal plant between Camden and Woodlynne to handle the Haddon Avenue trunk sewer, under Street Commissioner Sayers.

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Camden at a Glance column, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 1, 1915, with four short Camden news items
News Articles

Camden at a Glance

Mrs. Jane H Dukes of 3803 Westfield Avenue was fatally stricken with heart disease while sitting on her porch; also a child struck by a motorcyclist, a wedding at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, and the incorporation of the Sturdevant Corporation.

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Fugitive Leaps From Window — Edward Finn, 2617 Howell Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 1, 1915
News Articles

Fugitive Leaps From Window

Edward Finn, 17, of 2617 Howell Street burglarized a home at 564 North 27th Street and leaped from a second-story window to escape before being arrested, in July 1915.

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Newspaper column "Camden at a Glance" from the Philadelphia Inquirer, June 19, 1915, with five short Camden news items
News Articles

Camden at a Glance

Local briefs from Camden including Julius Narshinski, 40, of 214 Burns Street treated at Cooper Hospital for heat exhaustion, a drowning in the Delaware, and a fatal accident at the Gibbstown powder plant.

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Camden County Transfers real estate column, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 18, 1915
News Articles

Camden County Transfers

Real estate transfers in Camden County, including 340 Division Street, Antonio Mecca to Lorenzo Del Fico, and 1449 Princess Avenue, Lewis F. Holl to Jeannette Bryant, $3300. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 18, 1915.

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Headline 'Snake Alarms Householder', Philadelphia Inquirer, June 17, 1915.
News Articles

Snake Alarms Householder

Mrs. George Kruger of 673 Fairview Street found a large snake coiled at her front door; a neighbor, Policeman Harry Orrens, shot it. It measured six feet two inches and proved to be a harmless pine snake.

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