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 362

Philadelphia Inquirer, November 10, 1914, Danny Green Dead
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Danny Green Dead

The Philadelphia Inquirer's obituary of Danny Green, who died at the Camden County Hospital at Blackwood after years of illness following a pitched ball to the head, and recalls his career in Camden, Springfield, Chicago and Minneapolis.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, October 22, 1914 — Camden at a Glance, trolley accident
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Camden at a Glance

A runaway Haddonfield trolley struck William Clark and Joseph Johnson of 1140 South Tenth Street at Newton Street and Haddon Avenue; both men were treated at Cooper Hospital.

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Bicycle Thief Arrested — Harold Miller, 2742 Arthur Avenue — Philadelphia Inquirer, October 16, 1914
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Bicycle Thief Arrested

Detective Captain Schregler arrests Harold Miller, 16, of 2742 Arthur Avenue on charges of stealing bicycles at the Mount Holly Fair.

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Two Suspects Admit Having Robbed House — Philadelphia Inquirer, October 8, 1914
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Two Suspects Admit Having Robbed House

George Laws and Edward Thomas, 22, of 413 North 28th Street, admitted ripping a water pipe from a vacant house at 22nd and Howell Streets and attempting to rob the home of Frederick Voigt at 222 North 32nd Street, where they were caught by a neighbor.

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Newspaper clipping headlined Boys Confess Theft of Bike, Camden Post-Telegram, September 29, 1914
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Boys Confess Theft of Bike

Joseph Evans, 14, of 225 Benson Street, and David Plummer, 12, were held by Recorder Stackhouse in September 1914 after confessing to stealing a bicycle from the home of Fireman William McCauley, 453 Liberty Street. The boys were also accused of breaking into the Asbell Brothers store at 911 Broadway.

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Headline 'Allege Father and Son Whipped Laute', Philadelphia Inquirer, September 29, 1914.
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Allege Father and Son Whipped Laute

Thomas O'Connell and his son James, of 2309 South Seventh Street, were held by Recorder Stackhouse in Camden, accused of beating William Laute, 37, of 741 Fairview Street, who was taken to Cooper Hospital.

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Newspaper clipping headlined Follows Wife in Death, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 27, 1914
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Follows Wife in Death

Robert A. Pierson, a veteran railroad man, died at his Berkeley Street home in Camden hours after his wife's burial, unaware of her death.

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Camden Boy Shot By His Companion — Philadelphia Inquirer, September 27, 1914
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Camden Boy Shot By His Companion

Harold S. Woodin, 15, of 632 Clinton Street was accidentally shot in the side in September 1914 by 14-year-old John C. Voll of 1143 Federal Street, while the two boys played with a revolver in the cellar of the Woodin home.

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100 Girls in Fire Scare, Chief's Auto Overturns, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 13, 1914
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100 Girls in Fire Scare; Chief's Auto Overturns

Fire Chief John A. Stockton and his chauffeur Martin Carrigan jumped clear as the chief's car skidded into a beer truck at Broadway and Kaighn Avenue while responding to a fire at the General Gas Mantle Company plant.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, September 9, 1914 — Harry Litchman store burgled
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Harry Litchman Store Burgled

Stephen Damski, 18, of Sycamore Street was committed to jail for breaking into Harry Litchman's store at 1124 South Tenth Street and stealing $5 in money and tobacco.

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Newspaper clipping: "Second Attempt to End His Life Fails", Philadelphia Inquirer, August 5, 1914
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Second Attempt to End His Life Fails

Jockey Louis Asseline, jailed by Recorder Stackhouse after shooting himself, tried to choke himself in his cell; he said he was despondent because his wife, at the home of her parents Mr. and Mrs. James Barry at Locust and Mechanic Streets, refused to return home.

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