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 392

Police Seek Writer of Note Found on Suicide — Camden Post-Telegram, July 12, 1906
News Articles

Police Seek Writer of Note Found on Suicide

William Cooper of 27 North Twenty-first Street died of laudanum poisoning at Cooper Hospital; police sought the writer of a mysterious note found in his pocket after he sat unnoticed for hours in a Federal Street saloon.

·3 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1906 — New Faces Behind Bars, Excise Board license transfers
News Articles

New Faces Behind Bars

The Camden Excise Commission granted a retail liquor license to Andrew Miller at 1423 South Tenth Street and approved several other license transfers.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden News Notes — May 27, 1906

Camden briefs for May 27, 1906, including Captain of Police Stanley's investigation into a ring of Yale lock keys found on the roof of a house near Sixth and Chestnut Streets.

·1 min read
News of a Day in the City of Camden
News Articles

News of a Day in the City of Camden

Considerable surprise was manifested in Camden yesterday when it was announced that Anna Turner, the sixteen-year-old daughter of Frank Turner, a prominent builder and contractor, has been marred since January 21 to Louis Voegtlin, formerly of Camden, but now of Trenton.

·4 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer column of short Camden news items under the boxed headline News of a Day in the City of Camden, May 16, 1906
News Articles

News of a Day in the City of Camden

A Philadelphia Inquirer column of Camden news for May 16, 1906, including a planked shad dinner at Chew's Landing attended by Mayor Charles H. Ellis and city officials, plans for a new daily newspaper, and Dr. Ernest Ramsdell's rescue of a boy from beneath a team of horses.

·4 min read
William Walsh missing from 524 Borton Street — Philadelphia Inquirer, May 16, 1906
News Articles

William Walsh missing

William Walsh, 17, of 524 Borton Street returned home after going missing for several days, having traveled to Atlantic City to see the sights.

·1 min read
Camden-Notes-1906-05-01
News Articles

Camden Notes — May 1, 1906

Philadelphia Inquirer - May 1, 1906 ** Hugh Kelly, James Harris and Wiliam Conway were held in $800 bail each by Recorder Stackhouse yesterday charged with beating Special Officer Samuel B. F. Alcott .

·1 min read
Samuel B F Alcott Injured
News Articles

Samuel B. F. Alcott Injured

Philadelphia Inquirer - April 28, 1906 Former Policeman Samuel B. F. Alcott fell at the Taylor grain elevator yesterday, tearing his left leg. He was treated at the Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, April 28, 1906 — Freeholder Lawrence Rhoades recovering
News Articles

Freeholder Lawrence Rhoades Recovering

Two brief notices report that Freeholder Lawrence Rhoades, the Republican leader in South Camden, has recovered from a heat-related illness and later from a near-fatal illness.

·1 min read
Savannah-is-Ready-1906-04-15
News Articles

Savannah is Ready

An April 15, 1906 Atlanta Constitution preview of the South Atlantic League season opener in which Jacksonville meets Savannah, with the expected batteries and lineups.

·2 min read