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 425

Newspaper clipping headlined Camden's Police Shake-Up
News Articles

Camden's Police Shake-Up

The Philadelphia Inquirer of December 8, 1896, reported that Camden police Lieutenant Pettit explained his failure to execute a warrant against gamblers at 503 Federal Street, an account Chief Dodd denied.

·1 min read
Inquirer boxing column "In the World of Leads and Counters" on Corbett, Fitzsimmons and Sharkey and the Tuxedo Athletic Club's fall program
News Articles

In the World of Leads and Counters

If it’s not one thing it’s another. With the passing of the baseball season come the Knights of the Mitts, and from now on until the robins begin to do business in the spring time the space that has been devoted all summer to thrilling stories of life on the diamond, of base hits, of fumbles and muffs, will be turned over to the truthful chronicle of the doings of the king-pin pugs, and those who think they are king pins.

·5 min read
Newspaper clipping: Funeral of Mrs. Moffett, Camden Daily Telegram, September 2, 1896
News Articles

Funeral of Mrs. Moffett

The funeral of Mrs. Susan Moffett, wife of City Hall janitor Charles C. Moffett, was held from her son Henry Moffett's residence at 602 Broadway, with city officials serving as pall bearers and interment in Harleigh Cemetery.

·1 min read
Death of Ex-Mayor James W. Ayers - New York Herald Tribune August 28 1896
News Articles

Death of an Ex-Mayor of Camden

Ex-Mayor James W. Ayers, who was elected Mayor of Camden in 1877 and built up the city's Police Department, died at his home, No. 423 Arch Street, at the age of seventy-four.

·1 min read
Chief Matlack's Funeral, Camden Daily Courier, August 26, 1896
News Articles

Chief Matlack's Funeral

The August 26, 1896 Camden Daily Courier account of Josiah Matlack's funeral at the residence of Charles H. Ellis, Jr., conducted by Rev. J. S. Heisler with lodge representatives as pall-bearers and interment at Harleigh Cemetery.

·1 min read
Josiah Matlack Funeral Notice, Camden Post, August 25, 1896
News Articles

Josiah Matlack Funeral Notice

The August 25, 1896 funeral notice for Josiah Matlack, inviting relatives and members of Ionic Lodge No. 94, Camden Lodge No. 155, and Pottowottomie Tribe to services at the residence of Charles H. Ellis, Jr., 915 South Fifth Street, with interment at Harleigh Cemetery.

·1 min read
Josiah Matlack Dead, Camden Post, August 24, 1896
News Articles

Josiah Matlack Dead

The August 24, 1896 Camden Post obituary of ex-Chief of Police Josiah Matlack, who died at the home of City Council President Charles Ellis after being prostrated by heat at Ocean City. It recounts his Council service, Masonic and fraternal memberships, and his tenure as chief under Mayor Bradshaw.

·2 min read
Over in Camden, Philadelphia Inquirer column of Camden news briefs, August 13, 1896
News Articles

Over in Camden

Philadelphia Inquirer column of Camden news briefs, August 13, 1896: a hay-stack arson charge at Audubon, a damage-suit bail, a bicycle theft, and Cooper Hospital cases including Amy Mann of 314 Atlantic avenue.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping, "Camden's Heat Victims," Philadelphia Inquirer, August 13, 1896
News Articles

Camden's Heat Victims

The August 1896 heat killed Mrs. Kate McAllister, 29, of 587 Clinton Street, Camden, and prostrated Charles Thompson of 503 Arch Street, James Peterson of 927 Kaighn's Avenue, and Stewart Bakely of Third and Cherry streets.

·1 min read
Damsels in a Scrap, Camden Post, August 4, 1896
News Articles

Damsels in a Scrap

Clara Green, Minnie Depew, Rachel Gibbs, and Edward Jackson engage in a fight on Baxter Street; sentenced to ten days each by the Mayor.

·1 min read
New Jersey real estate advertisement from the Philadelphia Inquirer, July 18, 1896
News Articles

New Jersey Real Estate

July 1896 Philadelphia Inquirer real-estate advertisement from Chas. S. Newkirk & Co., 615 Broadway, offering houses at 531 Berkeley Street, 539-41 Roberts Street and 1138 Marion Street.

·1 min read