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 400

206 South 32nd Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 24, 1904
News Articles

Craig—Fisher

Elsie M. Fisher and William B. Craig of East Camden were married in June 1904 at the bride's home, 3024 Federal Street, by the Rev. George T. Harris of the Asbury M. E. Church.

·1 min read
Headline of "Four Killed When Fireworks Blew Up", Philadelphia Inquirer, May 24, 1904
News Articles

Four Killed When Fireworks Blew Up

An explosion of mysterious origin wrecked the Independent Fireworks Company plant at Ferry and Cooper avenues in Camden, killing four workmen and injuring others; officers of the company were arrested on manslaughter charges.

·6 min read
Camden News Notes column, Philadelphia Inquirer, May 3, 1904
News Articles

Camden News Notes — May 3, 1904

A Philadelphia Inquirer "Camden News Notes" column of May 3, 1904, reporting the funeral of William H. Shearman from his home at 33 Haddon Avenue, Mayor Joseph E. Nowrey's thank-you exchange with Philadelphia's mayor over firemen's help at the Victor talking machine plant fire, and a small carpenters' strike.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping, A Delightful Dance: Eighth Ward Republican Club reception, Camden Post-Telegram, April 21, 1904
News Articles

A Delightful Dance

The Eighth Ward Republican Club's reception in the chapel at Broadway and Emerald street drew about 200 couples; the grand march was led by Alfred Snow and Mary Collins. Camden Post-Telegram, April 21, 1904.

·1 min read
Police Raid Camden House newspaper clipping
News Articles

Police Raid Camden House

Captain Stanley and a squad raided 212 Walnut Street, arresting alleged proprietress May Barber along with three men and four women; Barber was committed in default of $500 bail.

·1 min read
Charles Watson Dead in Camden - 1904-03-31-inq
News Articles

Charles Watson Dead in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer - March 31, 1904 After several weeks' illness from progressive paralysis, Charles Watson , one of Camden's best-known citizens, died at his home at 223 Cooper street , shortly after 9 o'clock last night.

·1 min read
New Camden Brewery, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 27, 1904
News Articles

New Camden Brewery

Joseph Baumgartner, of Sioux City, Iowa, has purchased two acres of land at Bulson Street and Chelten Avenue, Camden, N.J., from the Camden Manufacturers' Land Company for $20,000, upon which he intends to build a modern brewing plant.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, March 15, 1904: two men jailed for assaulting Frank Stockton in Camden
News Articles

Frank Stockton Assaulted

Two men were committed to the county jail in default of bail on charges of assault and battery on Frank Stockton, son of Fireman John Stockton, at Third Street and Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
Shipbuilders-Home-Building-and-Loan-Association
News Articles

Shipbuilders Home Building and Loan Association

A number of the officials and employes [sic] of the New York Shipbuiling [sic] Company have organized the Shipbuilders' Home Building and Loan Association by the election of the following officers: President, William J. Bradley ; vice president, Thomas J. Moore; secretary, John M. Kelly [sic] ; treasurer, Central Trust Company ; solicitor, E. G. C. Bleakly .

·1 min read
News Articles

"Kentucky Rosebud" Is Held

Walter Edgerton, the boxer known as "Kentucky Rosebud," was held in $600 bail by Magistrate Kochersperger after his arrest at an alleged crap game at 1031 Locust Street; twenty-two other men were sentenced to five days each in the county prison.

·1 min read
First Ward Club Had a Jolly Time
News Articles

First Ward Club Had a Jolly Time

Annual Election and Feast of Fun Held Last Night Camden Courier-Post - January 12, 1904 Hospitality was rampant at the First Ward Young Republican Club last night. The occasion was the annual meeting.

·3 min read
Patrolman Harvey Cited for Disrespect newspaper clipping
News Articles

Patrolman Harvey Cited for Disrespect

Patrolman William Harvey, eighteen years on the Camden force without a complaint against him, was cited before the Police Committee to answer a charge of using impolite language to Captain Stanley.

·1 min read