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 402

Philadelphia Inquirer, October 5, 1903 — Charles Keating charged with assault
News Articles

Charles Keating Committed

Charles Keating, aged 35 years, was committed to the county jail by Justice Schmitz in Camden yesterday, charged with assaulting Elsie Simpson, aged 18 years. The complaint was made by Albert Simpson,

·1 min read
Gunning in a Cemetery newspaper clipping
News Articles

Gunning in a Cemetery

Repeated gunshots broke the quiet of Harleigh Cemetery as hunters dodged among the tombstones. Captain Stanley rounded up two Italians who had shot two robins and a rabbit.

·1 min read
With Gun and Dog Man Created a Big Scare in Camden newspaper clipping, page 1
News Articles

With Gun and Dog Man Created a Big Scare in Camden

George Willingmire terrorised South Camden with a shotgun and a bull terrier, wounding four people before plunging into the Eighth Street swamp. Captain Stanley pursued him to within twenty feet before Willingmire loaded his gun and threatened to fire.

·3 min read
Clipping "Arm Broken by a Twist", Philadelphia Inquirer, September 13, 1903, about a Camden pitcher.
News Articles

Arm Broken by a Twist

John Jamison, 20, of 680 Woodland Avenue, a pitcher, broke his arm above the elbow while throwing a curve ball during a game at Seventh and Fairview Streets. Cooper Hospital doctors said a sudden twist caused the fracture.

·1 min read
Police Stopped Sunday Amusements
News Articles

Police Stopped Sunday Amusements

Philadelphia Inquirer - September 7, 1903 The Hebrew Social and Educational Club, of Camden, gave an outing at Hoosey's Grove, Camden's East Side, yesterday. A large number of persons were present from all parts of Camden and Philadelphia.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, September 5, 1903, Royal Welcome for Ex-Sheriff Baird
News Articles

Royal Welcome for Ex-Sheriff Baird

The Philadelphia Inquirer's account of the enthusiastic welcome given State Assessor and former Sheriff David Baird on his return from Europe; Dr. H. H. Davis was among the Camden men in the greeting party.

·4 min read
News Articles

Think the Block Is 'Hoodooed'

Camden Post-Telegram, September 2, 1903: neighbors on the 700 block of Pine Street, struck by appendicitis, typhoid, a factory injury and diphtheria in three weeks, believed their row of houses was "hoodooed."

·2 min read
vanb-1701-071903-inq.jpg
News Articles

Thieves Took to the Swamp

Four men attempting to rob William Rudolph's bottling works at Van Buren and Vanhook streets flee into Lane Ditch Swamp; police, including Sergeant Hyde, surround it but abandon the search after an hour.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 15, 1903
News Articles

Camden News Notes

Camden News Notes, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 15, 1903: seven short items including a break-in charge at 1133 South Ninth Street and two boys from 816 Silver Street committed to the county jail.

·1 min read
Andrew Rabeau Dead, Camden Post-Telegram, July 10, 1903
News Articles

Andrew Rabeau Dead

Andrew Rabeau, 71, a longtime Second Street and Bridge Avenue cigar dealer, former Third ward councilman and retired Pennsylvania Railroad foreman of car inspectors, died suddenly of paralysis at the home of jeweler F. W. Fuller, 217 Federal Street.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping, Many Persons Hurt While Celebrating, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 5, 1903
News Articles

Many Persons Hurt While Celebrating

Rain stopped the morning exercises at the Pyne Point Park Fourth of July celebration in Camden in 1903, while the East Side's leading fireworks display was at the fire house at Twenty-seventh and Federal streets under Captain Amadee Middleton. Blank cartridges and toy cannon caused a string of injuries treated at Cooper Hospital and Homeopathic Hospital.

·3 min read