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 382

Philadelphia Inquirer, November 14, 1909 -- Handing Out Gunning Licenses in Camden
News Articles

Handing Out Gunning Licenses in Camden

County Clerk Frank Patterson's office issues an estimated three thousand gunning licenses on the eve of the season; Camden's police plan to hunt, including Sergeants William Schregler and James Tatem.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer article Camden Justly Proud of Splendid Fire Department, November 7, 1909
News Articles

Camden Justly Proud of Splendid Fire Department

A Philadelphia Inquirer feature of November 7, 1909 recounts Camden's fire companies from the volunteer Perseverance Fire Company of 1810 to the paid department of 1869, and describes its chiefs, equipment and houses.

·3 min read
Camden Post-Telegram page clipping, October 4, 1909: headline Linden Baptists in Their Handsome New Home, with an engraving of the new Linden Baptist Church and portraits of S. Conrad Ott, John T. Bottomley and Rev. George W. Peck
News Articles

Linden Baptists in Their Handsome New Home

The Linden Baptist Church moved into its new domed brick building at the northeast corner of Ninth and Linden streets, designed by architect Arthur Truscott, with services all day and a crowd of about 1,500 at the evening service.

·1 min read
Mother and Babes Alone — Philadelphia Inquirer, September 9, 1909
News Articles

Mother and Babes Alone

A 1909 Philadelphia Inquirer report on the destitution of a Camden widow at 1701 Hale Street, left with newborn triplets after her husband Stanley Macks died at Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Hurt in Trolley Crash, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 2, 1909
News Articles

Hurt in Trolley Crash

City Detective Harry C. Moffett and Mrs. Sarah Kindy, of 721 Kaighn Avenue, were injured in a rear-end collision between two trolley cars at Ann Street and Kaighn Avenue, Camden; Dr. Paul N. Litchfield attended Mrs. Kindy.

·1 min read
Body of Christian Gienger not recovered, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 2, 1909
News Articles

Body of Christian Gienger Not Recovered

Christian Gienger, a Camden saloonkeeper of 952 North Front Street, drowned off Chester when his naphtha launch was run down on the Delaware; his body had not been recovered.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, August 7, 1909.
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Philadelphia Inquirer Camden briefs of August 7, 1909: Humphrey Lynch of 410 Viola Street treated for a Fourth of July cannon-cracker wound, a drowning in Cooper Creek, a car-barn injury, and the deaths of Benjamin Derndinger and George Westcoat.

·1 min read
Declare Man Kicked Child — Alexander Bendzin, 1041 Diamond Street — Philadelphia Inquirer, August 1, 1909
News Articles

Declare Man Kicked Child

Andrew Kolposhi was held in $500 bail for allegedly kicking Alexander Bendzin, a child of 1041 Diamond Street, causing possibly permanent injuries.

·1 min read