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 423

News Articles

Stockton's Town Council

At the April 27, 1897, meeting of Stockton's Town Council, liquor licenses were granted across the borough's three wards, including one to B. L. Buenzle.

·1 min read
Newspaper column, In the Sporting Boiler
News Articles

In the Sporting Boiler

Maher and O'Donnell will wind up at Arena next Monday night. The proposed Maher-Sharkey match is creating great interest in pugilistic circles.

·2 min read
Springfield Massachusetts Republican, April 14, 1897, The First Practice Game
News Articles

The First Practice Game

The Springfield Republican reports the first practice of the season at Hampden park, where "Shorty" Fuller, Killeen and "Dan" Green were the only three Ponies to report, and manager Tom Burns put the squad through its paces.

·1 min read
Death notice for Emily L. Brill, wife of John Brill, with funeral at 2816 High Street, Philadelphia Inquirer, April 11, 1897.
News Articles

Brill Death Notice

Death notice for Emily L. Brill, aged 30, wife of John Brill and daughter of Wm. H. and the late Emily J. Baldwin, with funeral services at her husband's residence, 2816 High Street, Cramer Hill, and interment at Evergreen Cemetery.

·1 min read
Camden Daily Telegram "For Rent" advertisement listing fourteen rental houses, including 124 Clay Street, March 11, 1897
News Articles

For Rent

Real Estate Investment Co. advertises 124 Clay Street for rent — 4 rooms at $6.00 per month — along with other Camden properties. Camden Daily Telegram, March 11, 1897.

·1 min read
Fire at 114 England Place — Philadelphia Inquirer, March 10, 1897
News Articles

Fire at 114 England Place

Children playing with matches caused a slight fire at the house of John Leary at 114 England Place, Camden. A similar blaze had occurred there days earlier when a dog upset a lamp.

·1 min read
A dog, supposed to be mad, was shot by Policeman Anderson at Sixth and Mickle streets yesterday, after the animal had terrorized the neighborhood.
News Articles

A Dog Was Shot

Philadelphia Inquirer - February 18, 1897 A dog, supposed to be mad, was shot by Policeman Anderson at Sixth and Mickle streets yesterday, after the animal had terrorized the neighborhood.

·1 min read
Newspaper article, Local Boxers at Lancaster
News Articles

Local Boxers at Lancaster

The Orange Street Opera House was well filled to-night to witness the boxing contests between Philadelphia pugilistic aspirants. There were six bouts, two of which were anything but tame.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping headed Over in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1897
News Articles

Over in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer, February 16, 1897: brief Camden news items, including Mrs. Mina Geist's guilty plea before Mayor Westcott to selling liquor without a license after a raid at Second and Arch streets.

·1 min read
Clipping "Over in Camden", Philadelphia Inquirer, February 12, 1897: Samuel Matthews of 224 Byron Street reported missing
News Articles

Over in Camden

A Philadelphia Inquirer item of February 12, 1897 reports that Samuel Matthews of 224 Byron Street was reported to the police as missing.

·1 min read
Inquirer boxing report "The Boxers' Lively Saturday Night" on Bull McCarthy beating Dan McConnell at the Southwark Athletic Club
News Articles

The Boxers' Lively Saturday Night

The wind-up at the Southwark Athletic Club last night between the redoubtable “Bull” McCarthy, of this city, and Dan McConnell, who glories in the fact that Camden is his place of habitat, should have satisfied the most exacting.

·1 min read