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 43

Map of Cramer Hill and East Camden, 1914
Streets

17th Street

Seventeenth Street runs through two separate sections of Camden: North 17th Street extends from Harrison Avenue to River Avenue through the Cramer Hill neighborhood, while South 17th Street runs from Federal Street southward across Carman Street to Admiral Wilson Boulevard in East Camden.

·4 min read
1906-Sanborn-Map-11th-and-12th-streets
Streets

12th Street

Camden has two separate 12th Streets: North Twelfth, which once ran from Federal Street to the Cooper River before being largely erased by highway construction, and South Twelfth, which runs from Fairview Street to Lakeshore Drive and is lined with post-World War II rowhouses.

·5 min read
Henry S. Harrop
Historical Accounts

1890 Review of Camden, New Jersey - Part 10

FRANK MESTER, IMPORTER AND WHOLESALE LIQUOR DEALER 4th AND ARCH STREETS . This is one of the most widely known houses in the town, it having had an established reputation for the sale of unadulterated wines and liquors.

·57 min read
Standard-WIndow-Glass-Works-A-C-Lamar
Historical Accounts

1890 Review of Camden, New Jersey - Part 5

WILLIAM R. BENNETT, MANUFACTURING JEWELER 544 FEDERAL STREET WILLIAM R. Bennett is the proprietor of the establishment so frequently mentioned by the people of Camden, and vicinity as "Bennett's Jewelry Store," It is situated at 544 Federal street, and was opened, in October, 1887, by Mr. Bennett.

·24 min read
Sohmer Piano
Historical Accounts

1890 Review of Camden, New Jersey - Part 4

S.S.E. Cowperthwaite, Sewing Machines, etc. 221 Federal Street ONE of the oldest business concerns in Camden is that of S.S. E. Cowperthwaite, located at No. 221 Federal St., and well known throughout the city and country.

·16 min read
Derby-and-Wetherby-Camden-Machine-Works-1890
Historical Accounts

1890 Review of Camden, New Jersey - Part 3

SOCIETY MANUFACTURING COMPANY 28 MARKET STREET In the production of fine grocers' specialties, no trade mark has become more familiar with the higher class of the trade than that which bears the trademark "Society," which is practically synonymous with purity, high quality, and artistic make up, in the preparation of the goods placed upon the market by the house under review.

·23 min read
1890 Historical and Industrial Review of Camden New Jersey
Historical Accounts

1890 Review of Camden, New Jersey - Part 1

1890 Historical and Industrial Review of Camden, New Jersey - Intro The Historical and Industrial Review of Camden, New Jersey was commissioned and published by Camden's Board of Trade, a forerunner of the Chamber of Commerce.

·20 min read