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 404

Death notice for Mrs. Mary Sines, Public Ledger, March 26, 1903, funeral from 306 Taylor Avenue.
News Articles

Sines

Death notice for Mrs. Mary Sines, who died March 23, 1903; funeral services were held at the family residence, 306 Taylor Avenue, with private interment at Bethel Cemetery.

·1 min read
Camden Man Shot Lincolns Slayer - 1903-02-13
News Articles

Camden Man Shot Lincoln's Slayer

Boston Corbett , Who Killed Wilkes Booth, Remembered by Many Old Residents of the City To the minds of many of Camden's older residents the birthday of Abraham Lincoln recalled the day's years ago when they had within their midst Boston Corbett , the man who bore the distinction of having laid low John Wilkes Booth, the murderer of the martyred President, when he was making a break for liberty from the burning barn in Virginia.

·1 min read
Camden News Notes — January 31, 1903
News Articles

Camden News Notes — January 31, 1903

Camden news notes including the arrest of Joseph Leonard at Ninth and Ferry Avenue on a charge of writing policy, days after police captured a policy outfit at that location.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier clipping, "Another Case in Third Ward Riot," January 27, 1903: Keaser and Miller on trial for assault.
News Articles

Another Case in Third Ward Riot

Policeman Albert Keaser and ex-Policeman Robert "Bob" Miller went on trial for assault and battery on George Murray, the second case to come out of the Third Ward election riot at Third and Beckett streets; the jury in the Charles Wagner case could not agree.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier article, Wagner's Trial for Stabbing Miller, January 26, 1903
News Articles

Wagner's Trial for Stabbing Miller

The main court room was crowded with interested Third warders this morning, when the first of the criminal complaints growing out of the riots at Third and Beckett streets, on the night of July 28, last, during the Congressional primary, was taken up. It charged Charles Wagner with assault and battery on Policeman Harry Miller.

·7 min read
Clipping "Two Small-pox Cases Reported", Philadelphia Inquirer, January 11, 1903, naming 1310 North 27th Street
News Articles

Two Small-pox Cases Reported

Two cases of small-pox were reported to the health authorities: John Donahue, aged 3, of 1310 N. Twenty-seventh Street, and Edith Westcott, aged 6, of 9 South Fifth Street.

·1 min read
Raided a Gambling Den, Camden Daily Courier, December 29, 1902
News Articles

Raided a Gambling Den

Captain Arthur Stanley and a squad of officers raid an alleged gambling den at 729 Baxter Street, capturing six men with crap and poker paraphernalia.

·2 min read
Camden Official Dangerously Ill: portrait of Frank S. Jones, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 26, 1902
News Articles

Camden Official Dangerously Ill

The Philadelphia Inquirer of December 26, 1902 reported that Frank S. Jones, Assistant Receiver of Taxes of Camden, was in critical condition at his home at 434 South Sixth Street.

·1 min read