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 379

Clipping "Held Under Bail on Wife's Serious Charge", Philadelphia Inquirer, September 17, 1910.
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Held Under Bail on Wife's Serious Charge

Mrs. Sadie Costell, a widow living on Woodland Avenue, held under bail with Benjamin Goldthrope on a charge made by his wife, was released on her own recognizance because she had small children who needed her care.

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Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, Steamboat Slocum Was Again on Fire, September 10, 1910
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Steamboat Slocum Was Again on Fire

Blaze discovered on the ill-fated steamboat General Slocum, by then a barge, at the John H. Mathis Shipbuilding Company wharf at the head of Point Street, Camden. Philadelphia Inquirer, September 10, 1910.

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W. Harry Smith, of 320 Birch street, formeraly of the Columbia Hotel, 224 Market street, but now with George W. Fry’s buffet, 29 North Third street...
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Don't Say How Old He Is

W. Harry Smith, then with George W. Fry's buffet at 29 North Third Street, was congratulated by his friends on his birthday anniversary, the Camden Daily Courier reported in September 1910.

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Newspaper clipping: "Alleges Prisoner Got Off With $300", Camden Daily Courier, August 22, 1910
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Alleges Prisoner Got Off With $300

Antonio Dilgrande of Locust Street was held at the county jail, charged with jumping his bail and stealing $300 from Marie Gelima; both had been arrested weeks earlier for conducting a "speakeasy."

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Camden Daily Courier clipping, August 22, 1910 — Arrest Follows Luring of Girl
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Arrest Follows Luring of Girl

Louis Mayer, 19, of near Twelfth and Federal streets, was held without bail to await Pennsylvania extradition on a charge involving a 14-year-old girl, Katherine Corkhill of Alberta street — though Mayer told a different story. (Camden Daily Courier, August 22, 1910.)

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Woman Reveals Haunts of Vice, Philadelphia Inquirer, August 20, 1910
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Woman Reveals Haunts of Vice

Philadelphia Inquirer report on the police and immigration crusade against disorderly resorts in Philadelphia's Eighth ward, especially Warnock street, where the child of Mrs. Mollie August was found with "The Kentucky Rosebud."

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Camden News Notes column, Philadelphia Inquirer, August 10, 1910
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Camden News Notes — August 10, 1910

Camden briefs for August 10, 1910, including the severe burning of Elmer Wright of 1639 Broadway in a vat of molten lead and nitric acid, and the theft of two silver cups from the Synagogue Sons of Israel at Eighth and Sycamore streets.

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Answers Suit for Baby, Philadelphia Inquirer, August 6, 1910
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Answers Suit for Baby

The city's answer to the habeas corpus writ in which Walter Edgerton, the boxer known as Kentucky Rosebud, sought to recover an eight-month-old baby he said he had adopted, Philadelphia Inquirer, August 6, 1910.

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Newspaper clipping "Deno Is Captain of New Company," Camden Post-Telegram, June 24, 1910.
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Deno Is Captain of New Company

City Council's Fire Committee named William Deno captain of the new fire company at Tenth Street and Kaighn Avenue, effective July 1, 1910, and sent John H. McTaggart to the Kaighn Avenue firehouse near Sixth Street.

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Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, June 24, 1910: "Four Prostrations in Camden," heat victims at a talking machine plant and pen factory
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Four Prostrations in Camden

Four Camden residents suffered heat prostration on June 23, 1910, including Anna Connor, 17, of 209 Byron Street, treated at Cooper Hospital.

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Theresa A. Sorden death notice — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 23, 1910
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Theresa A. Sorden

Death notice for Theresa A. Sorden, 49, widow of John H. Sorden, who died suddenly June 20, 1910; services at 137 North 23rd Street, Camden, burial at Medford, NJ.

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