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 410

Automobiles Tabooed - Wilkes-Barre Times - 1900-08-09
News Articles

Automobiles Tabooed

Wilkes-Barre Times - August 9, 1900 Camden, NJ, Aug 9—At a meeting of the Camden County board of freeholders steps were taken looking to the exclusion of automobiles from roads in the county.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, July 26, 1900: Three Firemen Suspended
News Articles

Three Firemen Suspended

The Camden Fire Commissioners suspended Fireman Cox for one month, and Firemen Colkett and Johnson for two weeks, for fighting in a saloon on Arch Street.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, July 21, 1900: John Kupperwich of 1047 Lewis Street jailed after threatening his family.
News Articles

Camden Police Instructed on Nude Bathing

Camden police items from the Philadelphia Inquirer of July 21, 1900: nude bathers to be arrested, disorderly-house and whisker-pulling cases before Recorder Nowrey, and John Kupperwich of 1047 Louis Street jailed after threatening his family with a knife.

·1 min read
Raid Over in Camden newspaper clipping
News Articles

Raid Over in Camden

Police Captain Stanley and Sergeant Hyde raid two alleged disorderly houses on Pine Street above Tenth, arresting the reputed proprietors and thirteen inmates.

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Philadelphia Inquirer, July 8, 1900 — A chimney 235 feet high erected by Howland Croft and Sons Company at Broadway and Jefferson Avenue
News Articles

A Chimney 235 Feet High

The Howland Croft & Sons Company erected a 235-foot chimney at Broadway and Jefferson Avenue — the tallest stack in Camden.

·1 min read
Emley Herman cat bite, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 8, 1900
News Articles

Emley Herman

Emley Herman, 10, of 325 Birch Street, was taking a cat to Philadelphia in a basket when the cat escaped on the ferryboat. In trying to recapture it he was severely bitten on the thumb.

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Robbers in Skirts, Camden Post-Telegram, July 2, 1900
News Articles

Robbers in Skirts

Two men in women's clothing rob George Brown of $30 on Baxter Street, fleeing toward Lily Row.

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Fourteen Caught in Saloon Round-Up, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 26, 1900
News Articles

Fourteen Caught in Saloon Round-Up

Fourteen Camden county liquor dealers arrested by Law and Order League agent George B. M. Adams, including William Convery at Eleventh and Carpenter Streets; all entered bail before Justice Schultz.

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Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, June 24, 1900: Fire Engine Wrecked, Four Firemen Hurt
News Articles

Fire Engine Wrecked; Four Firemen Hurt

Four Camden firemen were injured when Chemical Engine No. 2 overturned after its front wheels caught in a trolley switch at Second Street while it was answering an alarm at Front Street and Kaighn Avenue.

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Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, June 24, 1900: McConnell and Cleary to Meet
News Articles

McConnell and Cleary to Meet

The Broadway A. C., Broad and Ellsworth, will give the boys a run for their money to-morrow night. For the grand wind up it has two of the best men that could be secured, namely, Dan McConnell, the champion lightweight of Camden, and Tom Cleary, of Fairmount.

·1 min read
Lad Drowned in Shallow Water
News Articles

Lad Drowned in Shallow Water

William Clements, 13, drowned at the foot of Jefferson Avenue; he was visiting his grandparents at 1680 Ferry Avenue. Three Philadelphia Inquirer notices from June 24–27, 1900.

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