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 413

Newspaper article, Norton and McConnell: six-round bout at the Globe Theatre on Thursday night
News Articles

Norton and McConnell

An event that is causing a considerable amount of talk at present is the six-round bout between Charles Norton, Billy Wilson's lightweight champion, and Dan McConnell, lightweight champion of New Jersey, which takes place at the Globe Theatre next Thursday evening, December 21.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping, Allen and Callahan To-night: Globe Theatre card including Dan McConnell and Dan Danvers
News Articles

Allen and Callahan To-night

The contest between Joe Allen and Tim Callahan, Philadelphia's premier feather weights, which has created so much interest and discussion in pugilistic circles, will come off to-night.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, November 30, 1899 — Osler Funeral Notice
News Articles

Osler Funeral Notice

Funeral notice for Rebecca, wife of William H. Osler, of 1836 Kossuth Street, who died November 28, 1899.

·1 min read
Could Not Agree on New Fireman - Philadelphia Inquirer clipping
News Articles

Could Not Agree on New Fireman

Camden's Fire Commissioners selected firemen for five new companies; Benjamin Kellum was made assistant chief and Daniel Smith was appointed for the Fifth ward.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer column Over in Camden, November 17, 1899
News Articles

Over in Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer's Camden roundup of November 17, 1899: the police superintendent's move to 640 Berkley Street, commissions for Sheriff Sell and the coroners, a liquor-law fine, a trolley accident, and two boys held on a stable break-in charge.

·1 min read
Laborers struck by trolley — Philadelphia Inquirer, November 17, 1899
News Articles

Laborers Struck by Trolley

Charles Thomas of 1872 Milton Street and Patrick Hayes of 3 James Court, laborers for the Vulcanite Paving Company, were struck by a trolley car at Broadway and Kaighn Avenue but not seriously injured.

·1 min read
Foehl Fined by Recorder Nowrey, Philadelphia Inquirer, November 17, 1899
News Articles

Foehl Fined by Recorder Nowrey

Gottlieb Foehl, a wholesale liquor dealer of the East Side, was fined $50 and costs by Recorder Nowrey for selling liquor in less quantity than one quart.

·1 min read
Newspaper article, Only Five Rounds: McConnell was game but no match for Spike Sullivan at the Trenton Athletic Club
News Articles

Only Five Rounds

Some wise men had prophesied that there would be a shower of shooting stars last night, but the only shooting stars in Trenton were those that flashed and darted before Dan McConnell's vision during the five rounds he played with Spike Sullivan, in what was to have been a twenty-round bout at the Trenton Athletic Club.

·4 min read
Captain Albert Stanley newspaper clipping
News Articles

Captain Albert Stanley

A portrait feature on the commander of Camden's Second Police District — Arthur Stanley, whose given name the Inquirer misprinted as "Albert." The item credits him with clearing the district of policy writers and speak-easies, and notes he had formerly carried the Inquirer to its residents.

·1 min read
Cleaning Out a Colored Dive newspaper clipping
News Articles

Cleaning Out a Colored Dive

Euceria Manor, who ran a house at Locust and Division Streets, was committed in default of $1000 bail on a charge of harbouring minors for immoral purposes after a raid conducted by Captain Stanley.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping, Dan McConnell at Broadway: McConnell to meet Tommy Edwards at the Broadway A. C.
News Articles

Dan McConnell at Broadway

Dan McConnell, of Camden, will meet Tommy Edwards in a six-round wind-up at the Broadway A. C., Broad and Ellsworth streets, to-morrow night.

·1 min read