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 437

Notes from Camden column, Philadelphia Inquirer, September 11, 1891
News Articles

Notes from Camden

A Philadelphia Inquirer column of September 11, 1891: the end of the Camden dog catcher's season, the death of liquor dealer Hugh Morgan, a Ladies' Base Ball Club game ending with stones thrown at Haddon avenue station, and a false-arrest suit against Policemen Ben Thomas and Josiah Sage.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer column Over in Camden, August 12, 1891, listing local news items
News Articles

Over in Camden

The Philadelphia Inquirer's Camden roundup of August 12, 1891: saloonkeeper William Gallagher of 106 Kaighn avenue pays his Sunday-selling fine, the Rev. J. Livingston Allen of the Kaighn Avenue Methodist Church marks his silver anniversary, and Thomas Guthridge sues the West Jersey Railroad Company for $10,000.

·3 min read
Newspaper clipping, "Odds and Ends of News", Philadelphia Inquirer, July 2, 1891
News Articles

Odds and Ends of News

A Philadelphia Inquirer item of July 2, 1891, reports that Policeman Cable picked up a Philadelphia lad in Camden for pretending to have a fit.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer column Odds and Ends, June 19, 1891
News Articles

Odds and Ends

Philadelphia Inquirer, June 19, 1891: local Camden items, including a burglary at J. Hermann's tailoring establishment at 1120 Broadway, the start of cars on the new Fourth street line, and Mayor Pratt holding William Kemble in $500 bail on a policy-writing charge.

·1 min read
Camden Post, June 3, 1891: Sensational Assault and Battery Case, Joseph Logue trial
News Articles

Sensational Assault and Battery Case

Camden Post, June 3, 1891: the trial of Joseph Logue of 129 Birch Street for assault and battery on Sarah Louwin ended in a not guilty verdict after the jury was out ten minutes.

·2 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer clipping, January 20, 1891: Camden's Factional Fight
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Camden's Factional Fight

The Philadelphia Inquirer of January 20, 1891, reports rival Pfeiffer and Thompson Democratic factions each organizing a Camden City Committee, along with Republican Club and Horse Company elections.

·1 min read
A Camden Woman's Windfall — Mrs. J. E. Miller, Philadelphia Inquirer, January 15, 1891
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A Camden Woman's Windfall

Mrs. Josephine E. Miller of 3 French's Court was awarded a $121.65 U.S. government claim as the only surviving heir of John Metz, a "powder monkey" aboard the brig General Armstrong in the War of 1812.

·3 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer item on Lawrence Smith's arrest for running a speak-easy at Sixth and Royden streets, 1890
News Articles

Speak-Easy Arrest

Lawrence Smith was arrested for running an alleged speak-easy at Sixth and Royden streets, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 22, 1890.

·1 min read
Minor Rogers Missing, Philadelphia Inquirer, December 7, 1890
News Articles

Minor Rogers Missing

A brief item reporting Minor Rogers of 335 North Front Street missing, his wife believing he had eloped with an actress.

·1 min read