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 369

Newspaper clipping "Celebrations by 3 Fire Companies," Camden Post-Telegram, Jan. 2, 1913.
News Articles

Celebrations by 3 Fire Companies

New Year's banquets were held by Engine Company No. 7, the firemen at Headquarters, and Hook and Ladder Truck No. 1; Daniel Smith was among the diners at Headquarters.

·4 min read
555 North 27th Street — James R. Tapper, 1913
News Articles

Coal That Satisfies

Stockton Coal Co. advertisement, James R. Tapper, proprietor, 27th and Pleasant Avenue, Camden City Directory, 1913.

·1 min read
Marble dedication plaque listing the 1913 building committee, school board and architect of the Alfred Cramer School.
News Articles

Building Committee and Board Members

Marble dedication plaque of the Alfred Cramer School, erected in 1913 by the Board of Education, naming the building committee (Kirby Garwood, chairman), the Board of School Estimates headed by Mayor Charles H. Ellis, the architect Clyde S. Adams and the builder Geo. Bachmann.

·1 min read
Marble dedication plaque listing the 1913 Camden Board of Education members and school officials.
News Articles

School Staff and Administration

Marble dedication plaque of the Alfred Cramer School listing the 1913 Camden Board of Education members and school officials, including H.H. Davis, M.D., medical inspector.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Charge, Murder to Italian Now on Sea", Philadelphia Inquirer, December 25, 1912
News Articles

Charge, Murder to Italian Now on Sea

Camden police believe Ilario Di Antonio, sailing for Italy, stabbed William Gallagher to death at Locust and Pine streets on December 8, 1912; two compatriots were arrested after Detectives Schregler and Troncone investigated.

·2 min read
Take Sixteen Men in Raid newspaper clipping
News Articles

Take Sixteen Men in Raid

Sixteen men, several cases of beer and many quarts of gin and whisky were taken in Captain Stanley's raid on a house at 214 Pine Street; alleged proprietress Annie Handy escaped.

·1 min read
One Killed, One Hurt by Train, 1912
News Articles

One Killed, One Hurt by Train

Peter Pfeffer, 20, of 628 North 24th Street, East Camden, was killed and Richard Dunn of 2818 Saunders Street seriously injured when a Pennsylvania Railroad train struck them while walking the tracks near Fish House in December 1912.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, December 17, 1912: Camden Loses Two Prominent Citizens, on Alfred Cramer and W. K. Hurff
News Articles

Camden Loses Two Prominent Citizens

Philadelphia Inquirer, December 17, 1912: Alfred Cramer, real estate developer of Cramer Hill, dies at his home at 433 Penn Street, and William K. Hurff of the Security Trust Company dies in Pasadena, California.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Cases Treated at Cooper Hospital", Camden Post-Telegram, December 16, 1912
News Articles

Cases Treated at Cooper Hospital

A Camden Post-Telegram list of cases treated at Cooper Hospital, led by Christopher Umberger's fall from a Cooper River boat house roof and including John T. Gordan of 647 Locust Street.

·1 min read