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 359

Newspaper clipping headed New Synagogue Dedicated, a short article about a new synagogue in Camden
News Articles

New Synagogue Dedicated

Philadelphia Inquirer, March 26, 1915: the Congregation of the Love of Right dedicates its new synagogue at 419 Arch Street, Camden.

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Clipping: Camden Has Building Boom
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Camden Has Building Boom

Inspector Day issued permits for thirty-eight Camden dwellings, including eleven on Viola Street, eleven on South Fourth Street and eight on Winslow Street for the Guarantee Realty Company, plus homes on Thirty-second and Florence Streets.

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Fall Proves Fatal
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Fall Proves Fatal

Mrs. Kate Evans, 60, of 1743 South Fourth Street died in Cooper Hospital after breaking her hip in a fall downstairs.

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Newspaper clipping "$600,000 Will Be Spent on Camden", Philadelphia Inquirer, March 26, 1915
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$600,000 Will Be Spent on Camden

Camden City Council adopts bond issues and appropriations of nearly $600,000 — including a new high school and Fire Department motorization — and creates the office of Assistant Police Chief.

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Newspaper clipping headed "Two Attacked by Dogs" from the Philadelphia Inquirer, March 21, 1915
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Two Attacked by Dogs

Dogs sent two men to the Homeopathic Hospital in Camden: James Reese of 724 Chestnut Street and Samuel Hartman of Haddon Heights, attacked on Haddon Avenue.

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Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, March 21, 1915: Camden barber Andreas Beck retires after 59 years
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Quits After Nearly 3 Score Years at Trade

Andreas Beck, Camden's veteran barber, retired in March 1915 after fifty-nine consecutive years in business at 116 Federal Street, where his customers included Senator William J. Sewell and, once, President Benjamin Harrison.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, March 21, 1915 -- Arrest Youth as Fugitive
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Arrest Youth as Fugitive

Acting on a tip from Detective Captain Schregler, Camden police arrest 19-year-old Russell Pray, a fugitive wanted in Somerset County for theft from a township farm.

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Suffragists Not the Cause, 1915
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Suffragists Not the Cause

Herman Miller of 59 South 24th Street was charged with abusing his wife and sentenced to thirty days; he blamed her suffragist activities, but the Recorder found him at fault.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, March 19, 1915: John Bobo of 1164 Everett Street has blood poisoning
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John Bobo

John Bobo of 1164 Everett Street developed blood poisoning from picking a pimple on his hand. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 19, 1915.

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Sends Trio to Jail, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 19, 1915: Recorder Stackhouse jails three people over a fight.
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Sends Trio to Jail

Recorder Stackhouse sent Mrs. Frances Wienefski of the boathouse colony at the foot of Viola Street, and Joseph Wachiski and Stanley Rubinski, who had been fighting over her, to jail for twenty days.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, March 14, 1915 -- Suspect Is Discharged
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Suspect Is Discharged

For lack of evidence, Detective Captain Schregler orders the release of Peter Conchella, arrested over an attempt to blow up a Pine Street home.

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