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 397

Camden Daily Courier clipping, April 25, 1905: Wedding in Baptist Church, Florence Toone and Harry Raymond Staley
News Articles

Wedding in Baptist Church

Camden Daily Courier, April 25, 1905: Miss Florence Clapton Toone, daughter of Isaac Clapton Toone, married Harry Raymond Staley at the First Baptist Church, with a reception at 554 Benson street.

·1 min read
New Firemen Added to Camden's Force newspaper clipping
News Articles

New Firemen Added to Camden's Force

With the Camden Fire Department spreading across the city, City Council's Fire Committee appointed additional firemen, naming one or two men from each of the twelve wards.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Camden News Notes", Camden Post-Telegram, April 19, 1905
News Articles

Camden News Notes

A Camden News Notes column: a new policeman appointed, a permit for ten dwellings at Fourth and York streets, a liquor license transfer, a G. A. R. reunion invitation, county bridge plans, and a 13-year-old boy of 810 Locust Street struck on the head with a brick.

·1 min read
Clipping "Rescued Boy With a Pole", Philadelphia Inquirer, April 3, 1905.
News Articles

Rescued Boy With a Pole

Charles Larsen, 16, of Eighth Street and Woodland Avenue, fell into Big Timber Creek near Clements' Bridge while fishing and was pulled to shore with a pole by his cousin John.

·1 min read
News And Incidents of a Day in Camden-1
News Articles

News and Incidents of a Day in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer - March 1, 1905 Attacked at Third and Mickle street s, Camden, late Monday night by a man, Mrs. Bessie O. Day, of Seventh and Clinton streets , had her clothing cut in strips.

·4 min read
Policeman Will Contest Dismissal
News Articles

Policeman Will Contest Dismissal

Samuel Alcott, Discharged by Councils, Will Take Case to Supreme Court Policeman Samuel B. F. Alcott was tried last night by the Police Committee of the Camden City Council and dismissed from the service of the city, having been charged with assault and battery upon William Morris , a fireman..

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping "Want Stanley Retained", Philadelphia Inquirer, February 20, 1905
News Articles

Want Stanley Retained

Business men of southern Camden move to block the removal of Police Captain Arthur Stanley; were he ousted, Sergeant Edward Hyde would fill the vacancy.

·1 min read
More Policemen to Go in Camden newspaper clipping
News Articles

More Policemen to Go in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer, February 19, 1905 — More Policemen to Go in Camden Philadelphia Inquirer, February 19, 1905 Democratic Members of the Force Are Marked for Dismissal From the Department According to a statement made by a member of the Police Committee of Camden City Council to an Inquirer reporter yesterday, charges will be preferred against a number of Democratic policemen during the week and the resignations of the officers are likely to follow.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1905
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Six short Camden items from the Philadelphia Inquirer of February 16, 1905, including a trolley accident involving John L. Roberts of 1603 Holcaine Avenue.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1905
News Articles

Camden News Notes — February 16, 1905

A column of Camden news briefs from the Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1905, including a report that John L. Roberts of 1608 Holcaine Avenue was injured by a trolley car at Broadway and Atlantic Avenue.

·2 min read