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 358

Death from Mill Accident — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1915
News Articles

Death from Mill Accident

John W. Derr, 42, of 139 North Twenty-third Street died at Cooper Hospital after being caught in a shafting at a manufacturing plant at Twenty-seventh and Pleasant Streets.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, June 6, 1915 — Cure Paralysis Victims
News Articles

Cure Paralysis Victims

Two children, Eva Sadtler and Anna M. Percival of 2013 South Tenth Street, are discharged as cured from Camden Municipal Hospital after treatment for infantile paralysis.

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Newspaper clipping: Sent to Prison for Theft, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 4, 1915
News Articles

Sent to Prison for Theft

John Walk, 21, of Philadelphia, was sentenced by Judge Boyle to fifteen months to seven years in State Prison for stealing a valuable lens from the Pelouze & Campbell store on Broadway; Detective Brothers captured him in Philadelphia.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, May 23, 1915: John Putz of 1233 Everett Street jailed for non-support
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Jailed for Non-support

John Putz, 37, of 1233 Everett Street was committed to jail by Acting Recorder Knight after his wife said he had refused to support her and their five small children. Philadelphia Inquirer, May 23, 1915.

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Headline Three Hurt During Test of Fire Hose, Philadelphia Inquirer, May 16, 1915
News Articles

Three Hurt During Test of Fire Hose

A high-pressure fire hose got away from Camden firemen during a test at Front and Linden streets, injuring two firemen of No. 6 Engine Company and a five-year-old girl.

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Newspaper clipping: Want Advice on School Question, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 28, 1915
News Articles

Want Advice on School Question

Camden's Board of Education seeks the advice of the city's civic bodies before considering moving the proposed $400,000 high school from the armory plot at Wright and Haddon avenues to Parkside.

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Newspaper clipping: Two Hit by Jitneys, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 28, 1915
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Two Hit by Jitneys

During a wind storm in Camden, Mary Dewalt was struck by a jitney at Broadway and Spruce Street and W. P. Miller was hit by an auto driven by Anthony Valentine at Broadway and Mickle Street; both chauffeurs were released after the accidents were found unavoidable.

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Celebrate Golden Wedding
News Articles

Celebrate Golden Wedding

Five hundred invited guests attended the golden wedding reception of Dr. and Mrs. William H. Izard at their home at 411 North Fourth Street, Camden, in April 1915.

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Camden at a Glance newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden at a Glance

Twenty-one men were captured in Police Captain Stanley's raid on a house at 1173 Chestnut Street where a crap game was alleged to be in progress; Charles Myers was held in $500 bail for court.

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Raid Alleged Disorderly Houses newspaper clipping
News Articles

Raid Alleged Disorderly Houses

Captain Stanley and a squad made two more raids near Third and Spruce Streets, descending on the places of Mamie Tinsey at 240 Spruce Street and Josephine Quinn at 807 Locust Street.

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Newspaper clipping: Dorothy Tischenor swallowed a marble
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Dorothy Tischenor notice

Dorothy Tischenor, 17 months old, of 2738 Polk Avenue, was taken to Cooper Hospital after swallowing a marble, and suffered no ill effects.

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News Articles

530–544 Fairview Street

Building Inspector Day issued permits for eight dwellings by T.G. Coulter from 530 to 544 Fairview Street, and for six dwellings by Martin Bergen Stone from 1486 to 1498 Louis Street.

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