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 408

"Why Pay Rent" advertisement by J. W. F. Bleakly & Co. with a photograph of new bay-windowed houses on South Ninth Street
News Articles

Why Pay Rent

A 1902 advertisement by J. W. F. Bleakly & Co. offering new hardwood-finished houses at 706 to 712 South Ninth Street for cash with the balance in monthly installments.

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Newspaper clipping "Grand Lodge of the Colored Freemasons Elect Officers" with a photo of Dempsey Butler Memorial Hall.
News Articles

Grand Lodge of the Colored Freemasons Elect Officers

The United Grand Lodge of Colored Free Masons closed its session at the new Masonic hall at Kaighn Avenue and Morris Street, electing A. W. Brown of Plainfield Grand Master; forty-eight lodges were represented, and U.S. Minister to Haiti William F. Powell attended.

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Dog Led Way to Drowned Child, Philadelphia Inquirer, November 11, 1901 (page 1)
News Articles

Dog Led Way to Drowned Child

The body of four-year-old Henry May Jr. of 208 Burns Street was found in a pond at North Second Street by John Dyer and Policeman Isaac Toy, after a collie dog led them to the spot.

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Rev. John H. Hutchinson death notice, 1901
News Articles

Rev. John H. Hutchinson

Death and funeral notice for the Rev. John H. Hutchinson, 67, of 308 Carteret Street, a member of the New Jersey M.E. Conference, who died September 25, 1901.

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Police Disperse Socialist Crowd newspaper clipping
News Articles

Police Disperse Socialist Crowd

An open-air meeting of the Camden branch of the Socialist party at Broadway, Newton Avenue and Mt. Vernon Street was stopped by order of Mayor Hatch. Chief Foster, Captain Stanley and twenty-five patrolmen dispersed the crowd.

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Camden News Notes newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden News Notes — August 11, 1901

A column of Camden briefs for August 11, 1901, including a report that Police Captain Stanley was in a head-on trolley collision at Brigantine Beach and escaped with a bad shaking up.

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Clipping: Changes in Fire Department, Camden Daily Post-Telegram, July 17, 1901
News Articles

Changes in Fire Department

W. Scott Franklin, newly appointed fireman, succeeds the resigned Wright Cox, and Fireman Augustus Kester moves to Fire Headquarters at Fifth and Arch streets.

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Gave Police a Tussle — Camden Post-Telegram, June 28, 1901
News Articles

Gave Police a Tussle

Fred Miller, a boarder on Coates Alley, resisted arrest after raising a disturbance at Rebecca Collins' house and was given ten days by the Recorder.

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Newspaper clipping: "Alleged Policy People Arrested", Philadelphia Inquirer, June 16, 1901
News Articles

Alleged Policy People Arrested

A major policy (numbers) raid in Camden, supervised by Chief of Police Foster with Sergeant Hyde's squad, nets nine arrests and a quantity of drawings and "dream books" at 257 Division Street.

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Newspaper clipping: United Fortunes in a Synagogue, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 23, 1901
News Articles

United Fortunes in a Synagogue

Miss Annie Pauline Alberts, daughter of Isaac Alberts of 705 Kaighn Avenue, was married to Philip Sihisky in the synagogue of the Sons of Israel, Fourth and Liberty streets, Camden, with Rabbi David Shane officiating.

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Quick Results as Usual - 1901-03-13
News Articles

Quick Results as Usual

Courier-Post - March 13, 1901 The Courier Co. Gentlemen : -- Machine sold from first insertion of my ad. in "Courier." -- [William] Russell , 907 York street , Camden. This is the little ad.

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