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 414

Newspaper clipping: East Side Jottings
News Articles

East Side Jottings

East Side police and court items from Camden, including the robbery of Charles Eckler of Polk Avenue on the North Cramer Hill ferryboat and the placing of new Gamewell police boxes in the East side.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Courier, August 31, 1899 - Doings in Realty
News Articles

Doings in Realty

Real estate transfers recorded in the Register of Deeds' office, including F. Joseph Rouh's purchase of the northeast corner of Broadway and Ferry Avenue from Wilhelmina Countiss for $7,250.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping (crop 1 of 10): "Camden Mystery More Involved", Philadelphia Inquirer, August 14, 1899
News Articles

Camden Mystery More Involved

The investigation into the death of Mrs. Lillian Chambers at the Locust Street house of William H. Wilkins, a Camden fortune teller and "voodoo doctor," led police to a boiler of suspected human bones hidden behind a sealed fireplace.

·7 min read
Over in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, July 31, 1899: six short Camden police and accident items.
News Articles

Over in Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer's Camden roundup of July 31, 1899: Theodore Shaw of 434 Henry street sent home from Cooper Hospital after a stabbing, a tandem-bicycle scorching arrest on the Mt. Ephraim pike, and a gasoline-stove fire at Albert K. Snyder's restaurant at 311 Kaighn avenue.

·1 min read
arthurstanley-072899-inq-1b.jpg
News Articles

Evil Doers Quake

Mayor Cooper B. Hatch launches a campaign against Camden's speak-easies; the first raid, led by Captain Stanley and Sergeant Hyde, seizes a house full of liquor, while saloonkeepers are fined for operating gambling machines.

·4 min read
Wife in Peril newspaper clipping
News Articles

Wife in Peril

William Knox, a hackman, was arrested for assaulting his estranged wife Jennie Knox at 810½ Broadway, Camden. Police Captain Stanley, drawn by her cries for help, took Knox into custody.

·1 min read
Mystery-of-a-Swamp
News Articles

Mystery of a Swamp

An 1899 newspaper account of Walter S. Jones, arrested in a Camden swamp near 17th and Mickle Streets after cries of murder were heard near Cooper's Creek.

·2 min read
Police Win Again newspaper clipping, page 1
News Articles

Police Win Again

The Camden and Suburban Railway Company's ruse to slip a work gang onto Haddon Avenue failed when a watchful police line intercepted them. Captain Stanley — "the doughty little captain" — ordered the men to disperse, and Mayor Hatch had the street cleared.

·4 min read
Camden’s Trolley Fight newspaper clipping
News Articles

Camden's Trolley Fight

The Camden and Suburban Railway Company's ruse to lay double tracks on Haddon Avenue was foiled by Captains Boyle and Stanley, who kept a small squad on the alert; two workmen were arrested and Mayor Hatch ordered the street cleared.

·3 min read
Chinese Puzzle newspaper clipping
News Articles

Chinese Puzzle

Tack Sing, a Chinese laundryman at Seventh and Mt. Vernon Streets, was arrested on a policy-writing charge after a slip covered in Chinese characters was found on him. An interpreter testified the slip was a doctor's prescription for toothache medicine.

·2 min read
Chimney Sparks Start a Fire, Camden Daily Courier, June 23, 1899
News Articles

Chimney Sparks Start a Fire

Sparks from a neighboring factory chimney burned the shingle roof of L. Carter's residence at 630 North Front Street before the fire department extinguished the blaze.

·1 min read