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 422

Philadelphia Inquirer clipping headed Over in Camden, August 20, 1897
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Over in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer column of short Camden items from August 20, 1897, including Game Warden Guthridge's arrest of a man for killing a thrush and a minister held on bail over a complaint from a Kaighn Avenue resident.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, July 25, 1897, on the death of Annie May Fox, aged nineteen months
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Annie May Fox

Philadelphia Inquirer, July 25, 1897: nineteen-month-old Annie May Fox, child of John Fox of 608 Royden Street, died of lockjaw after a crochet needle punctured her gum.

·1 min read
Springfield Republican, July 25, 1897: "They Couldn't Find Dolan," a Springfield-Buffalo doubleheader report with box scores
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They Couldn't Find Dolan

The Springfield Republican's account of an Eastern League doubleheader at Buffalo, in which Springfield took the first game behind Dolan's pitching — Danny Green doubling to the left fence — and the Bisons evened matters by hammering Woods in the second.

·5 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, July 14, 1897: Knell of Doom for Cobbles in Camden, on asphalt paving.
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Knell of Doom for Cobbles in Camden

City Counsel Morgan found that a law allows Camden to issue $200,000 in bonds for repaving, and petitions circulated to lay sheet asphalt on Market, Federal, Kaighn, Broadway, Haddon and Cooper streets, with the Camden and Suburban Railway sharing the cost.

·3 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer, July 9, 1897 -- Recovery from Bullet Wound
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Recovery from Bullet Wound

Policeman William Schregler is reported much improved from the bullet wound in his body and expected to recover without an operation.

·1 min read
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Two Men Shot in a Race Riot in Camden

A race riot in South Camden's Seventh Ward leaves two men wounded; police, including Policemen Hyde and McClung, exchange pistol fire with the combatants and make several arrests.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer Stockton column on Mamie Jaquillard's marriage and local church notes, June 13, 1897.
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Stockton

Stockton notes: Miss Mamie Jaquillard, daughter of ex-Freeholder Jaquillard, married Newton S. Danenhower; Miss Clara Hilliard of Twenty-fifth and High streets visits Pemberton; and the rector of St. Wilfred's invites G. A. R. Post 102 to divine service.

·1 min read
Serious Charges by Defeated Candidate
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Serious Charges by Defeated Candidate

Philadelphia Inquirer - June 12, 1897 Freedom C. Lippincott Claims That Philadelphia Repeaters Voted in Camden. BEGINS A NEW CONTEST Committee of One Hundred Starts on a New Tack in Its Efforts to Oust City Treasurer Felton - A Bond iFled [sic] .

·3 min read
Newspaper clipping: Tossed From an Engine, Philadelphia Inquirer, May 22, 1897
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Tossed From an Engine

Extra driver George Wade of Camden's Engine Company No. 2 had his left leg broken when thrown from the engine while responding to an alarm in 1897; the fire was at the Temple College Academy, 534 Penn Street.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: death notice of Mrs. Maria Beck, wife of Andreas Beck, 114 Federal street
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Death of Mrs. Maria Beck

Mrs. Maria Beck, wife of Andreas Beck of 114 Federal Street, died of congestion of the brain in May 1897; a prominent member of the First M. E. Church, her funeral services were to be held there on Monday.

·1 min read