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 370

Death notice of Alfred Cramer, Camden Post-Telegram, December 16, 1912
News Articles

Death Notice of Alfred Cramer

Death notice for Alfred Cramer, husband of Priscilla, aged 68, who died December 15, 1912; funeral services were held at his residence at 433 Penn Street, Camden, with private interment at Evergreen Cemetery.

·1 min read
Death notice of Catharine A. Croker, wife of James P. Croker, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 10, 1912.
News Articles

Catharine A. Croker Death Notice

Philadelphia Inquirer death notice for Catharine A. Croker, 45, wife of James P. Croker, with her funeral from the family residence on Viola Street, high mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart and interment at St. Mary's, Gloucester.

·1 min read
Trenton Times item, 20-Year-Old Boy Guilty as Slayer, on Peter Coursey's conviction for killing Karl Kellman, November 14, 1912.
News Articles

20-Year-Old Boy Guilty as Slayer

A Camden jury found Peter Coursey, alias "Cowboy Pete," 20, guilty of first degree murder for killing Karl Kellman; defense counsel planned to appeal to the Board of Pardons because of his youth.

·1 min read
Walz
News Articles

Christian Walz

Death notice for Christian Walz, 63, husband of Caroline Walz (nee Schaaf), of 1014 North 26th Street. Philadelphia Inquirer, November 1912.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier, November 1, 1912: Eagle Ball Was Grand Success, with a portrait of floor manager John J. Lloyd
News Articles

Eagle Ball Was Grand Success

About 2,000 costumed dancers attended the Camden Eagles' fourth annual grand mass ball at their aerie on Broadway, with music by Prof. Anthony J. Oberst's orchestra. Camden Daily Courier, November 1, 1912.

·4 min read
Newspaper clipping "Falls Seriously Injure Two" about two Camden youths hurt in falls, Philadelphia Inquirer, October 17, 1912.
News Articles

Falls Seriously Injure Two

Two Camden teenagers suffered serious injuries in separate falls on October 16, 1912 — William McGinnis fell from a roof on 12th Street and William Cutdalis fell from a tree while gathering chestnuts at his home on 31st Street.

·1 min read
Camden Post-Telegram, October 16, 1912: More witnesses in the Kellmann murder.
News Articles

More Witnesses in Kellmann Murder

Police located two more witnesses in the Karl Kellmann murder case: Berthold Neuman of 2813 High Street, who crossed the Twenty-seventh street bridge shortly before the shots, and railroad man Stewart Dahm, who was confronted by Duffield near Twenty-sixth street.

·2 min read
Camden Post-Telegram, October 15, 1912: Services to-night for slain youth Karl Kellmann.
News Articles

Services To-night for Slain Youth

Funeral services for Karl F. Kellmann, murdered the previous Saturday night, were set for his parents' home at 2919 High Street, with Rev. Charles A. Walker of Grace Presbyterian Church officiating and private interment at Arlington Cemetery.

·1 min read
Haggerty Missed Kellmann's Fate, Camden Post-Telegram clipping, October 15, 1912
News Articles

Haggerty Missed Kellmann’s Fate

Detectives Painter and Moffett identify William Haggerty of 2806 Carman Street as the man who crossed the Twenty-seventh street railroad bridge just before Karl Kellmann's murder; he spoke to Duffield there and went on without being interfered with.

·2 min read
Orrie Burroughs Ill
News Articles

Orrie Burroughs Ill

Fireman Orrie Burroughs of 520 Grant Street was confined to his home by illness requiring a physician's care.

·1 min read