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 47

1909 and 1911 Kossuth Street, May 29, 2012
Streets

Kossuth Street

Kossuth Street ran south through South Camden from Van Hook Street to the railroad tracks; named for the Hungarian revolutionary Louis Kossuth, much of it was razed in the 1950s for the Franklin D. Roosevelt Manor and Chelton Terrace public housing projects.

·8 min read
General Gas Mantle Company - Jefferson Street - 1926
Streets

Jefferson Avenue

Jefferson Avenue, also called Jefferson Street, runs from the Delaware River east to South 10th Street in Camden, one block north of Chelton Avenue; construction of I-676 severed the street, wiping out all structures east of the railroad tracks to Master Street.

·8 min read
East Camden Map - 1946
Streets

Jersey Avenue

Jersey Avenue runs northeast from North 36th Street in East Camden to the city limits at North 42nd Street, with no houses or businesses along its length.

·1 min read
Southwest Corner of Locust Street and Spruce street - 1912
Streets

Locust Street

Locust Street ran south from Beckett Street to Mechanic Street between South 2nd and South 3rd Streets in Camden; its 700 block was known as Oak Street until about 1883 and its 600 block as John Street in the 1870s. Homes and businesses disappeared block by block after World War II, and the last structure, at 1128 Locust, was razed after a fire in 2010.

·20 min read
People

Wilson L. Bromley

Wilson L. Bromley came into the world in New Jersey, around the year 1853, as the child of Joseph and Ann Eliza Bromley. His father, Joseph Bromley, earned his living as a boilermaker.

·3 min read
Friendship Engine & Hose Company No 1, Chambersburg, PA.
People

William Bogia

William Bogia was born in Delaware, approximately 1846, to parents John F. and Josephine. He was one of at least ten children born into the Bogia family. During the 1850 Census, the Bogias resided in New Castle, Delaware.

·3 min read
John H Dialogue Sr - 1886
People

John H. Dialogue Sr.

When it comes to gauging success by the durability and global reach of one's manufactured creations, John Dialogue undeniably stands as one of Camden's most notable figures.

·3 min read
Radio-Condenser-Company-1920s
Streets

Copewood Street

Copewood Street in Camden runs west of Haddon Avenue opposite Harleigh Cemetery to Davis Street; laid out in 1917, it has only one building that ever carried a Copewood Street address and is best known for providing access to the Ferry Avenue PATCO station.

·1 min read
Cox Street area — 1885 Sanborn Fire Insurance Map
Streets

Cox Street

Cox Street ran west from 1119 South 2nd Street for about half a block to a dead end, roughly opposite Sycamore Street; it first appeared in City Directories in 1890 and was renamed Sycamore Street around 1922, then erased after World War II as part of a redevelopment plan.

·2 min read
American Cigar Company - Camden NJ
Manufacturing and Hardware

American Cigar Company

South 6th and Mechanic Streets , Camden, NJ The American Cigar Company was a significant entity in the tobacco industry, particularly in the early 20th century.

·2 min read
Julian-Dinicholas-1933-06-21
People

Julian DiNicholas

Julian DiNicholas entered the world on December 17, 1918, in the state of New Jersey, born to the proud parents Mr. and Mrs. Albert DiNicholas.

·1 min read