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 426

Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, June 23, 1896: Camden's Bold Thieves, on daytime burglaries
News Articles

Camden's Bold Thieves

Philadelphia Inquirer, June 23, 1896: burglars in Camden rob houses in broad daylight, including attempts at 217 Penn Street and 551 York Street.

·1 min read
Inquirer boxing article "Light Weight Boxing Tourney" about the Tuxedo Athletic Club lightweight tournament
News Articles

Light Weight Boxing Tourney

Local light-weights will have an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities if the well-thought-out plans of the Tuxedo Athletic Club do not miscarry. The light-weight tournament is now an assured fact, and the first meeting is down for July 9.

·2 min read
Held on a Serious Charge, 513 Branch Street — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 23, 1896
News Articles

Held on a Serious Charge

John Fitzgerald, 52, locked up in Camden county jail charged with felonious assault on 13-year-old Mary E. Painter of 513 Branch Street; Mary E. Freeman held as accessory.

·1 min read
John G Hutchison
News Articles

Captain Hutchison Buried

The Funeral Largely Attended and Many Beautiful Floral Designs Captain John G. Hutchison, the veteran superintendent of the West Jersey Ferry , who died on Saturday last, was laid at rest in Evergreen Cemetery this afternoon.

·2 min read
Newspaper clipping Fell Off the Ladder, Camden Post, May 26, 1896
News Articles

Fell Off the Ladder.

William James, brother of fireman Albert James, fell from a ladder while working on a house on Ferry Avenue below Broadway and broke his wrist.

·1 min read
News Articles

Stockton Liquor Licenses

At a meeting of Stockton's Town Council on April 28, 1896, a batch of retail liquor licenses was granted; the applications of Eseker Meeks and B. L. Buenzle were refused.

·1 min read
Two Nearly Suffocate — George Block, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 5, 1896
News Articles

Two Nearly Suffocate

Saloonkeeper George Block of Front and Birch Streets and his wife narrowly escaped suffocation in a rear-room fire that badly damaged their house.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping on plans for the Catholic Lyceum Association Building, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 3, 1896
News Articles

Plans for Catholic Lyceum Association Building

Plans were accepted for the new Catholic Lyceum Association Building to be erected at Broadway and Federal Streets by the members of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, with work to begin about May 1. Philadelphia Inquirer, March 3, 1896.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer feature How the Y. M. C. A. Benefits Camden, with a drawing of the Camden gymnasium
News Articles

How the Y. M. C. A. Benefits Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer profiles the Camden Y. M. C. A. in 1896: its history since organizing at a house at Front and Cooper streets, its new gymnasium and swimming pool at Broadway and Federal streets, physical instructor A. G. Villee's methods, and the association's officers.

·7 min read