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 441

Camden Post advertisement for new 7-room houses by builder Wilson Ernst, June 29, 1888
News Articles

For Sale — New 7-Room Houses

An 1888 Camden Post advertisement in which builder Wilson Ernst offers new 7-room and 4-room houses for sale near the South Street and Kaighn Avenue ferries.

·1 min read
Camden News column, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 20, 1888: Cooper Hospital patients and the attached yacht Bonnie Doon.
News Articles

Camden News

Three Cooper Hospital admissions, including William Nefton of 215 Taylor's Avenue, injured at the Camden Iron Works, and the towing away of the yacht Bonnie Doon while it was under attachment.

·1 min read
Building Boom in Camden — Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1888
News Articles

Building Boom in Camden

James Cox has begun six two-story brick houses on Cox Street, below Second, as part of a broader construction boom across Camden. Philadelphia Inquirer, June 7, 1888.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping, The Logue Assault, Camden Post, June 1, 1888
News Articles

The Logue Assault

The Quarter Sessions Court trial of John F. Stratton and Henry Mellon, charged with the May 6, 1888 knife and blackjack attack on Joseph Logue near Starr's crossing, Tenth and Line streets, with testimony from Logue, Miss Sarah Lewine, Christopher Smith, Dr. Henry Jarrett, Charles R. Locke and Knight Haines.

·5 min read
Camden Daily Courier clipping, May 8, 1888: Supposed to be Logue's Assailant
News Articles

Supposed to be Logue's Assailant

Camden Daily Courier, May 8, 1888: Policemen Peters and Anderson arrest John Stratton and Henry Mellon on suspicion of assaulting Joseph Logue near the city hall.

·1 min read
Philadelphia Inquirer Camden Notes column, May 8, 1888, on an arrest, school board finances and a stable fire
News Articles

Camden Notes

Philadelphia Inquirer, May 8, 1888: two men arrested by Policeman Peters for stabbing Joseph Loague near City Hall, the Camden Board of Education's financial report, and a $600 fire at ex-Freeholder Gordon's stable at Second and Pine streets.

·1 min read
Model Homes advertisement, Camden Post, May 6, 1888
News Articles

Model Homes

Camden Post advertisement of May 6, 1888: W. T. Bailey, owner, offers newly finished model homes on Bailey, Grant, York and State Streets between Fifth and Sixth Streets.

·1 min read
Camden National Bank 1
News Articles

The Camden National Bank

Camden Post - March 1, 1888 In New Quarters The Camden National Bank which has been temporarily located at 250 Kaighn avenue, begins business to-day In the handsome new building fast completed, at the N.W. corner of Second and Kaighn avenue.

·10 min read
Newspaper advertisement: Homes and Investments for Sale, Wilson Ernst, Builder
News Articles

Homes and Investments for Sale

Classified advertisement from the Camden Post, February 26, 1888, in which builder Wilson Ernst offers new six-room houses for $1,600 on Baring Street between Chestnut Street and Kaighn Avenue.

·1 min read
Newspaper clipping: Mrs. Hannah Marcy, wife of Dr. Marcy, died at Riverton
News Articles

Mrs. Hannah Marcy

Death notice for Mrs. Hannah Marcy, wife of Dr. Marcy, who died at Riverton, N. J., aged 50 years. Philadelphia Inquirer, January 16, 1888.

·1 min read
Howard Woolston and Lewis Rothkogle, two lads, have been held in bail by the Mayor for larceny of pigeons from L. W. Frome, a fruit dealer.
News Articles

Larceny of Pigeons

Two Camden lads, Howard Woolston and Lewis Rothkogle, were held in bail by the Mayor for the larceny of pigeons from fruit dealer L. W. Frome.

·1 min read