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 421

Fell and Lay Senseless — Philadelphia The Times, January 3, 1898
News Articles

Fell and Lay Senseless

Andrew J. Smith, night watchman at the Camden Lighting and Heating Company's new power plant on Cooper's Creek, fell twelve feet from a doorway and lay exposed in an areaway overnight before being discovered and taken to Cooper Hospital in critical condition.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping reporting the death of Mrs. William Most of 518 Penn Street
News Articles

Mrs. William Most

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported on December 28, 1897 that Mrs. William Most, of 518 Penn street, stricken with apoplexy on Christmas while descending the stairs at her home, had died.

·1 min read
Hot Time in the Flats, Camden Daily Telegram clipping, December 20, 1897
News Articles

Hot Time in the Flats

Police raided a house at 624 Kaighn Avenue, one of the "New York Flats," and arrested proprietress Rosie Woolford and four others; arraigned before the Mayor, she pleaded not guilty and her bail was fixed at $800.

·1 min read
Newspaper article on the testimonial to Bert Crowhurst
News Articles

Testimonial for Bert Crowhurst

All the boxing bouts for the testimonial to Bert Crowhurst, which is to be held at the Caledonian Club on Monday evening, have been arranged, and they include most of the best boxers in and around the city.

·2 min read
Firemen-Own-Stockton
News Articles

Firemen Own Stockton

Gallant Laddies Celebrated Thanksgiving With a Parade Representative firemen from New Jersey and Pennsylvania owned the Town of Stockton yesterday and the Knights of the Golden Eagle joined them in the annual Thanksgiving demonstration of the Volunteer Fire Department of the town.

·2 min read
Camden Post Extra, November 10, 1897: "Shot Her Husband" headlines and the McCusker shooting story in a tall three-column newspaper scan
News Articles

Shot Her Husband

Michael McCusker, superintendent of the Union News Company at the Federal street station, was shot in the abdomen at his home, 206 Benson street, and died at Cooper Hospital; his wife Florence McCusker was charged with his murder.

·11 min read
Camden Daily Telegram extra, October 19, 1897: "Taylor Shot to Kill Him," on the shooting of Sumner Derrickson.
News Articles

Taylor Shot to Kill Him

Robert Taylor shoots Sumner Derrickson in a gambling dispute on Baxter Street; Derrickson taken to Cooper Hospital, Taylor arrested at the Federal Street ferry.

·5 min read
Alleged Threat to Shoot
News Articles

Alleged Threat to Shoot

Philadelphia Inquirer - October 18, 1897 William Lore was arrested in Stockton late Saturday night, charged with threatening to Shoot Israel Adams , proprietor of a saloon on Federal street .

·1 min read
Camdens Tragedy Still a Mystery - Philadelphia Inqurier - 1897-10-14
News Articles

Camden's Tragedy Still A Mystery

Philadelphia Inquirer - October 14, 1897 Two Men Arrested in Stockton, But They Easily Prove an Alibi. Police Are Puzzled Officials Believe the House Was Entered By a Burglar.

·9 min read
Over in Camden news column, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 30, 1897
News Articles

Over in Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer's Camden roundup of September 30, 1897: a burglary arrest on North Front Street, boys held for property damage on Vine Street, a robin-possession fine brought by Game Warden Guthridge, and a banker's funeral at St. John's.

·1 min read