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 420

Camden Safe Deposit and Trust Company Elects Officers
News Articles

Camden Safe Deposit and Trust Company Elects Officers

The Camden Safe Deposit and Trust Company, Camden's leading financial institution, has elected these officers: President, William C. Dayton; vice-president, Alexander C. Wood; treasurer, George W. Wakefield; trust officer, Benjamin C. Reeve; solicitor, Samuel H. Grey.

·1 min read
Swinging the Official Ax, Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, May 27, 1898
News Articles

Swinging the Official Ax

Camden's City Council discharged eight policemen and replaced them with reform supporters, and named new Water Department employees, including John T. Rodan.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Telegram clipping, May 12, 1898, Side-Splitting Farce Goes On - Police Committee hearings
News Articles

Side-Splitting Farce Goes On

The Camden Daily Telegram's account of the Police Committee's hearings on charges against city policemen, at which Dr. “Mark Hanna” Davis was noted as absent from the Reformers' deliberations.

·6 min read
Death notice for Harry Sines, Public Ledger, May 4, 1898, funeral from 306 Taylor Avenue.
News Articles

Sines

Death notice for Harry Sines, 22, who died suddenly on May 1, 1898; the funeral was held from his grandmother Mrs. Mary Sines's home at 306 Taylor Avenue, with interment at Bethel Cemetery.

·1 min read
News Articles

Stockton Liquor Licenses

At the April 26, 1898, meeting of Stockton Town Council, a number of retail liquor licenses were granted, including one to B. L. Buenzle.

·1 min read
Springfield Massachusetts Republican, February 7, 1898, Sporting News and Gossip
News Articles

Sporting News and Gossip

Springfield pitcher Harry Dolan talks to a Boston Herald reporter about manager Tom Burns and the Springfield club, praising catcher Nichols, "Big Dan" Brouthers, and left fielder "Dan" Green, whom he calls one of the fastest players living.

·4 min read
Newspaper article, M'Connell Outclassed by Matthews
News Articles

McConnell Outclassed by Matthews

The fifteen-round bout at the T. A. C. last night between Matty Matthews, of New York, and Dan McConnell, of Camden, came to an unsatisfactory ending in the middle of the seventh round, when Referee George Hendley decided that Matthews had fouled, and thereby declared McConnell the winner.

·3 min read
Newspaper article previewing the McConnell vs. Matthews bout
News Articles

McConnell vs. Matthews Tonight

Dan McConnell, of Camden, and Matty Matthews, of New York, will meet tonight at the T. A. C. in a fifteen round bout, which should be a remarkably fine exhibition of the game.

·3 min read
Newspaper article, Bernstein Bests Fairburn
News Articles

Bernstein Bests Fairburn

The windup at the Nonpareil Athletic Club last night was between Joe Bernstein, of New York, and Joe Fairburn, of this city. It was a rattling six-round set-to in which the New Yorker clearly proved his superiority as a boxer.

·2 min read
Andrew J. Smith obituary — Philadelphia Inquirer, January 8, 1898
News Articles

Andrew J. Smith

Death notice for Andrew J. Smith of Camden, aged 67, who died January 5, 1898; the funeral was held from Zion M. E. Church near Iona, New Jersey.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, January 7, 1898: Death Lurked on a Camden Street, about Harry J. Schaefer killed by a live wire
News Articles

Death Lurked on a Camden Street

Harry J. Schaefer, a 22-year-old silk spinner, was shocked to death by a broken live wire on Tenth street above Market in Camden while spectators were afraid to free him.

·3 min read
Smith Dies From His Injuries — Philadelphia The Times, January 7, 1898
News Articles

Smith Dies From His Injuries

Night watchman Andrew J. Smith of the Camden Lighting and Heating Company died at Cooper Hospital from the injuries and exposure he suffered after falling twelve feet from a doorway at the company's plant on Cooper's Creek.

·1 min read