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 384

Prince Clark in Sad Plight — Camden Post-Telegram, January 20, 1909
News Articles

Prince Clark in Sad Plight

Prince Clark, father of the leper boy at the county house, faces eviction from his Clay Street home in mid-winter. The city will destroy his household goods, and may seek to deport him to the Barbadoes. Camden Post-Telegram, January 20, 1909.

·2 min read
Camden Post-Telegram, January 16, 1909
News Articles

Assistant Fire Chiefs Sent to New Stations

Second Assistant Fire Chief George Cox and new appointee Chas. Fitzsimmons, Jr. took up the Kaighn Avenue fire house, while Assistant Fire Chief Samuel Buzine, Richard Marter and Harry Selby were transferred to Headquarters.

·1 min read
Plan Aid for Prince Clark — Camden Post-Telegram, December 29, 1908
News Articles

Plan Aid for Prince Clark

The Camden Board of Health discusses a proposition to help Prince Clark, father of the leper boy at the county house, who faces eviction and joblessness. Camden Post-Telegram, December 29, 1908.

·1 min read
Newspaper article, 'Convicted on His Cousin's Complaint,' Camden Post-Telegram, December 12, 1908
News Articles

Convicted on His Cousin's Complaint

S. Linokoski, a Russian, was tried before a jury in Police Court this noon on a charge of misdemeanor preferred by Annie Nevlin, his cousin, who resides in North Camden.

·1 min read
Newspaper column "Camden News Notes" with eight short local items, Philadelphia Inquirer, Dec. 9, 1908.
News Articles

Camden News Notes

A column of Camden news items, including the nomination of officers for the Camden Police Pension Fund — with Edward Hyde nominated recording secretary — the funeral of George Bird, and the death of William Baldwin of 510 Kaighn Avenue.

·2 min read
Excise Probe Is Used as Shield in Libel Action newspaper clipping
News Articles

Excise Probe Is Used as Shield in Libel Action

Captain Arthur Stanley filed his pleas in Patrick Carr's $10,000 libel suit, arguing that his statements about Carr's saloon were made under oath before the State Excise Commission and are in fact true.

·2 min read
One-sentence item, Philadelphia Inquirer, November 24, 1908, on sixteen dwellings begun on Viola Street.
News Articles

Sixteen Dwellings on Viola Street

Drs. Donges and Grant E. Kirk began building sixteen dwellings on Viola Street near Broadway, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported on November 24, 1908.

·1 min read
Kentucky Rosebud 54th birthday note, Camden Evening Courier, November 18, 1908
News Articles

Walter Edgerton Fifty-Fourth Birthday

The Camden Evening Courier notes that Walter Edgerton, "Kentucky Rosebud," the old-time light-weight who first knocked out George Dixon, celebrated his fifty-fourth birthday on November 18, 1908.

·1 min read
Raid Didn’t Amount to Much newspaper clipping
News Articles

Raid Didn't Amount to Much

Expecting many arrests, Captain Stanley and a squad descended on Tony Gardene's house at 1700 Master Street but found only Gardene and a friend; five cases of beer and a quantity of whisky were confiscated.

·1 min read