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 374

Camden's Bodies Begin New Year newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden's Bodies Begin New Year

Camden's municipal bodies reorganized for 1912 with James E. Hewitt returning as Council president. Police Captain Stanley was among those in contention for the post of excise inspector.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, December 28, 1911 -- Defends His Shooting Man
News Articles

Defends His Shooting Man

Roland Taylor, alias Evans, is held without bail on a murder charge preferred by Detective Schregler after fatally shooting David Green on Sycamore Street.

·1 min read
Clipping on the funeral of Bernard Tierney of 215 Royden Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 19, 1911
News Articles

Funeral of Bernard Tierney

Delegations from the Third Ward Republican Club and the Camden Aerie of Eagles attended the funeral of Bernard Tierney of 215 Royden Street, with requiem mass at Sts. Peter and Paul's Church and burial in Calvary Cemetery.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier headline: Robert Miller Drops Dead as He Plays Pool, with portrait, December 7, 1911
News Articles

Robert Miller Drops Dead as He Plays Pool

Constable Robert F. Miller, a former Camden policeman, collapsed and died of apoplexy while playing pool at Second and Arch Streets, the Camden Daily Courier reported on December 7, 1911.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping headlined Starts Panic on Trolley, Philadelphia Inquirer, November 22, 1911
News Articles

Starts Panic on Trolley

William C. Drew, handcuffed to County Detective John Cherry, bolted for the door of a crowded Market street trolley car in Camden after his capture at Twenty-third and Federal streets; the car was stopped while the detective subdued him and took him to the county jail.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, November 11, 1911 -- Dunn Brothers Arrested
News Articles

Dunn Brothers Arrested

Detectives William Randall and Schregler arrest brothers Roy J. and Richard Dunn in Camden on a Pittsburgh charge of obtaining money under false pretenses.

·1 min read
Italian Is Held on Grave Charge
News Articles

Italian Is Held on Grave Charge

Nicholas Small was taken into custody by Special Officer Troncone on suspicion of maltreating Elsie Staley, the girl whose refusal had led William May to attempt suicide.

·1 min read
Headline With His Bandana He Halted Express, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 20, 1911
News Articles

With His Bandana He Halted Express

Philadelphia Inquirer, September 20, 1911: a Camden policeman named Appley waved a bandana to stop an Atlantic City express at the Atlantic Avenue crossing, just short of the mired wagon of Smith Moore.

·1 min read
Newspaper column headed Camden Candidates Ready for Primaries, listing candidates for City Council, Freeholder and Excise Commissioner
News Articles

Camden Candidates Ready for Primaries

Philadelphia Inquirer report of September 7, 1911, that municipal candidates of both parties had filed petitions with City Clerk Brown, listing the candidates for City Council, Freeholder and Excise Commissioner by ward.

·1 min read
Twenty Years Ago To-Day in Bridgeton newspaper clipping, page 1
News Articles

Twenty Years Ago To-Day in Bridgeton

A Bridgeton Evening News retrospective column recalling the 18th annual reunion of the Twelfth New Jersey Regiment held in Camden, at which Secretary Arthur Stanley called the roll.

·1 min read