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 46

Postcard - First Methodist Episcopal Church
Religion

First Methodist Episcopal Church

301 South 6th Street Southwest corner of South 6th Street and Stevens Street The First Methodist Episcopal Church, established in 1809, transitioned to the name Third Street Methodist Episcopal Church in 1899 before relocating to a new building on June 5, 1893.

·2 min read
People

Carl Kisselman

Introduction is sourced from South Jersey: A History, 1624-1924 CARL KISSELMAN — Among the younger members of the legal profession who are prepared to fill the ranks as the older and noted men of the legal fraternity come to years of retirement, is Carl Kisselman, who was admitted to the bar of the State of New Jersey in February, 1922.

·2 min read
Golfers Contribute Money to Participate in United Fund Tournament
People

Wilfred L. Dube

Wilfred L. Dube entered the world on July 17, 1906, born in New York to Frank and Amanda Dube. Frank Dube, a machinist, had moved the family from an English-speaking province of Canada to New York in 1892.

·2 min read
Byron P Cobb - 1933-06-04
People

Byron P. Cobb

Byron P. Cobb was born in Maryland in 1874. In the early 1900s, he entered marital bliss with Anna M. Capwell, and they welcomed a son, Byron Jr., around 1905.

·1 min read
Earl-Stopfer-Draft-Card
People

Earl Stopfer

Earl Stopfer, born on March 29, 1899, in Philadelphia, PA, initially lived with his grandmother, Elaine Basert, in 1910.

·2 min read
Rear Admiral Bowman Hendry McCalla
People

Bowman Hendry McCalla

Rear Admiral Bowman Hendry McCalla was born on June 19, 1844, in Camden, New Jersey. He grew up in the city, the son of Mary Duffield Hendry and Auley McCalla.

·6 min read
Uncle Sam - Stock Photo
People

John A. Mather Jr.

General John Atkinson Mather Jr. was born on July 17, 1865, in Gloucester City, NJ , to John and Luisa Wallace Dawson Mather.

·2 min read
Garrett Cowls
People

Garrett Cowls

Garrett Cowls was born in Camden on August 1, 1850, to William and Mary Cowls. His father worked for the railroad. Although Garret Cowls was too young to take part in the Civil War, he did serve in the United States Army during the Indian Wars.

·2 min read
Dominick Oliveto - 1969-01-28
People

Dominick Oliveto

Dominick Oliveto, born on December 24, 1906, in New Jersey, was born to Italian immigrants Antonio and Maria Oliveto. Despite occasional misspellings of his surname as "Olivetto," his father, Antonio, migrated from Muro Lucano, Italy, in 1901.

·3 min read
A cobblestone street at night, lit by gas-style lamps, with trees and old brick and stone buildings on both sides.
Streets

Laet's Lane

Laet's Lane appears as an un-named alley on the 1891 Sanborn Map, running from Trenton Avenue toward Haddon Avenue between 539 and 541 Trenton Avenue until new houses cut it off from Haddon Avenue.

·1 min read