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 393

Camden’s Sunday Crusade Revived newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden's Sunday Crusade Revived

Captain Stanley began a crusade against Camden shopkeepers selling candy and cigars on Sunday; eight dealers were brought before Recorder Stackhouse and two pleaded guilty and were fined $10 each.

·1 min read
Camden Post-Telegram clipping, March 26, 1906: Penny Caused Lively Set-To, a police court trolley dispute
News Articles

Penny Caused Lively Set-To

The Camden Post-Telegram reported that Recorder Stackhouse suspended sentence on Harry Holmes after trolley conductor H. Selby's account of a fight over a missing penny was disputed by Policeman Howard Smith and Freeholder Larry Rhoades.

·2 min read
Two Camden Girls Missing - 1906-06-24 - Inquirer
News Articles

Two Camden Girls Missing

Philadelphia Inquirer - March 24, 1906 The Camden police were yesterday asked to locate Jennie Bradley, 16 years told, of 1051 Pine street , and Augusta Wilhelm, 17 years old, of 629 Central avenue .

·1 min read
Headline 'Camden Woman Dropped Dead', Philadelphia Inquirer, March 24, 1906.
News Articles

Camden Woman Dropped Dead

Mrs. Emily Laute, 54, of 741 Fairview Street, Camden, dropped dead at her home; Coroner Kirk found death was due to heart disease.

·1 min read
News Articles

Roof Falls on Firemen

The Altoona Mirror reports three Camden firemen killed and nine injured when the roof of the old Sixth Regiment Armory at Bridge and West streets fell, burying Fireman Harry Dease and the men he had warned; the injured were removed to Hooper Hospital.

·1 min read
News Articles

Roof Collapsed

The Lima Daily News reports that three Camden firemen — George W. Shields, William Hillman and William Jobes — were killed and nine others seriously injured in the fire that destroyed the old Sixth Regiment Armory, with the loss put at about $75,000.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, March 3, 1906 -- Chief Foster to Be Buried To-morrow
News Articles

Chief Foster to Be Buried To-morrow

Acting Chief William Schregler receives condolences from across the country following the death of Chief John Foster, whose funeral will be among the city's largest.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer Camden News Notes column, March 1, 1906, reporting a burned child at 1066 Louis Street.
News Articles

Camden News Notes

A Philadelphia Inquirer column of Camden items from March 1, 1906: a railroad power house going up at Seventh and Vanhook streets, bids for a lift bridge over Cooper Creek, and six-year-old Emma Jones of 1066 Louis Street badly burned in a bonfire.

·1 min read