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 399

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News Articles

Camden Police Form Organization

Camden police form a branch of the State Police Beneficial Association, electing Sergeant Edward Hyde president and Chief John Foster among the trustees.

·1 min read
East Side Notes
News Articles

East Side Notes

Firemen "Bobby" Gick , Scott, Franklin , Israel Adams , and William Randall and Adam Hinkle, who went on a fishing trip down the bay to Ship John Light, on board the sloop yacht, William B. Hill, have returned with a good coat of tan and plenty of the denizens of the deep, including a big mess of crabs.

·2 min read
News Articles

Attacked by Fish Hawk

John Daltman and George Wells were attacked by a fish hawk while gunning along the North Cramer Hill shore in East Camden, and shot the bird after a desperate battle. Freeholder Funfer, William Pepeta Jr., Samuel Arnold and Louis Mote had similar experiences with hawks along Petty's Island within a few days.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 2, 1904, with the Daniel N. Bromley funeral notice
News Articles

Camden News Notes — September 2, 1904

A Philadelphia Inquirer "Camden News Notes" column of September 2, 1904, reporting the deaths of Annie Smith of 308 Mechanic Street and Daniel Bromley of 1500 South Tenth Street, and the injury of 12-year-old Benjamin Eppinger of 1159 Federal Street, jolted from a brewery wagon at Twelfth and Federal Streets.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, September 2, 1904 — Daniel N. Bromley obituary
News Articles

Daniel N. Bromley

Funeral notice for Daniel N. Bromley, 49, who died September 1, 1904; services on Sunday, September 4, from the residence of his brother-in-law Alvin Wilke at 1503 South Tenth Street, with interment at Evergreen Cemetery.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Police Guard Gas Tank", Philadelphia Inquirer, August 12, 1904
News Articles

Police Guard Gas Tank

A Philadelphia Inquirer report of August 12, 1904 on the police guard placed over the gas holder being built at Locust and Walnut streets in Camden during a riveters' strike. Charles F. Watkins was named among those assaulted.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Camden News Notes — Roy West", Philadelphia Inquirer, August 9, 1904
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Roy West was held in $500 bail by Recorder Stackhouse, charged with breaking into the home of Mrs. Fannie Clark at 847 Locust Street.

·1 min read
Strikers and Workmen Fight newspaper clipping
News Articles

Strikers and Workmen Fight

Striking riveters building a gas tank for the Public Service Corporation at Locust and Walnut Streets clashed with replacement workmen at Fifth and Walnut; a squad under Captain Stanley dispersed the crowd.

·1 min read
Six Hurt by Falling Walls, Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, July 30, 1904
News Articles

Six Hurt by Falling Walls

Six workmen are hurt when storm-weakened walls collapse at Park's storage warehouse on Haddon Avenue; Sergeant of Police Hyde, who lived nearby, sends in the emergency call and the men are taken to Cooper Hospital.

·1 min read
Clipping from Courier-Post - Newspapers.com
News Articles

The Casson Brothers

Camden Morning Courier - July 8, 1904 The Casson Brothers, a clever acrobatic team, have secured an engagement at Guvernator's pavillion theatre, Atlantic City, the last week in July.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: "Camden's Scarred Patriots", Philadelphia Inquirer, July 5, 1904
News Articles

Camden's Scarred Patriots

Camden's Fourth of July in 1904 passed without serious accidents; eight people were admitted to Cooper Hospital, and flag raising and Pyne Point Park exercises were held.

·2 min read