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 368

Newspaper clipping: Angry Suitor Shoots Woman, Kills Self, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 28, 1913
News Articles

Angry Suitor Shoots Woman, Kills Self

Joseph Broadway, 53, shot Mrs. Lydia Harris at her furnished room house at 512 Kaighn Avenue, Camden, after she rejected his advances, then turned the revolver on himself; he died at Cooper Hospital, where she was expected to recover.

·2 min read
Woodbury Times, March 20, 1913 -- Reformatory Escapees Arrested
News Articles

Reformatory Escapees Arrested

City Detectives Schregler and Brothers and Captain Stanley arrest two Jamesburg Reformatory escapees at a Camden home; both boys are returned to the reformatory.

·1 min read
George Williams Always in Front newspaper clipping
News Articles

George Williams Always in Front

George Williams of Philadelphia's St. Patrick's Club won the five-mile Marathon race staged in Camden by the Business Improvement Association. Captain Stanley and a force of mounted and foot policemen struggled to open a lane through the dense crowd for the runners.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: Hertline Suspended, Bridgeton Evening News, March 5, 1913
News Articles

Hertline Suspended

Camden fireman William Hertline was suspended for disobeying the chief's orders; Frederick Morse and John Lennox were made lieutenants and Sylvester McGrath was appointed to the department.

·1 min read
Must Stop Cars at Every Corner, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 5, 1913
News Articles

Must Stop Cars at Every Corner

The Court of Errors decreed that all Public Service Railway Company cars must stop at every corner when patrons wish to board, ending a years-long contention by East Camdenites.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer notice of the funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Seale Halstead, March 5, 1913.
News Articles

Mrs. Elizabeth Seale Halstead

Mrs. Elizabeth Seale Halstead was buried from her home at 1145 Pear Street, now Whitman Avenue, after funeral services conducted by Rev. Samuel Price, with interment in Evergreen. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 5, 1913.

·1 min read
Clipping "Father Is Accused of Injuring Infant Son", Philadelphia Inquirer, February 6, 1913.
News Articles

Father Is Accused of Injuring Infant Son

Three-month-old Clarence Baker of 710 Woodland Avenue was taken dying of spinal meningitis to Cooper Hospital, and his father, Anthony Baker, was arrested by Detective Brothers on an aunt's story that he had thrown the child on the floor.

·1 min read
Was in Arrears
News Articles

Was in Arrears

Fred Foy, 30, of 8 South Fourth Street was arraigned in February 1913 for failing to pay $28 owed under a former court order, and agreed to pay off the arrears at $3 a week.

·1 min read