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!

Testimonial Dinner - Warren Webster - 1938-06-23
Historical Accounts

His Great Hour

The year 1938 was the fiftieth in the history of Warren Webster & Company and as the summer approached the Organization began laying plans to celebrate the Golden Jubilee and do honor to the Founder.

·2 min read
Warren Webster - Vice Admiral
Historical Accounts

Thanks to Our Pilot

From 1919 to 1930, the tat-tat of pneumatic riveters resounded from Coast to Coast and border to border as tens of thousands of buildings rose all over the land.

·7 min read
Orange Grove - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Kaleidoscope of Twenty Years

In the year 1920 the world "turned another corner." The events, "movements" and problems—mechanical, economical, political, spiritual, ethical and intellectual, which have crowded each other on and off the American scene have been too many, too rapid, too far-reaching, too intensely controversial to be analyzed in this record.

·5 min read
Orange Grove - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

First National Convention

In 1911," said Warren Webster , "our Company held its first national convention. For this event I engaged quarters at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel, Philadelphia. Pretty nearly everyone connected with the Company attended and we had a great time.

·11 min read
World War 1 - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

From Taft to Harding

William Howard Taft was one of the ablest men ever to occupy the presidency, but he was no politician. His administration was marked from first to last by a series of controversies.

·11 min read
London 1900 - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Affairs in London

"In 1903," recounted my father, " Warren Webster & Company made a deal with the Atmospheric Heating Company, of London, England. We licensed them under our patents. They could sell as they wanted and we guaranteed the validity of the patents.

·7 min read
Warren Webster - 491 N 3rd Street Philadelphia - circa 1889
Historical Accounts

The Kane Affair

Early in the 1900's I made arrangements with the New Bedford Engineering Company to represent us," said Warren Webster . This concern was owned by Thomas B. Kane, of Boston, and a man named White.

·5 min read
First Flight - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

The "Turn of the Century"

At Midnight on the last day of the 19th Century, pistols barked, fire-crackers exploded, horns tooted, factory whistles shrieked and bells chimed solemnly—just as on other New Year Eves.

·17 min read
Feedwater Heater - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Work and Growth

For Warren Webster and his Organization, the "Gay 90's" were years of hard work and growth. Said my father: "I did most of the selling out in the field from 1888 to 1912 or 1914. And how I loved it!

·18 min read
Bicyles and motorcars - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

The "Gay 90's"

Looking backward over the trail of American life, one decade stands out in fascinating glitter and has very appropriately been labeled the "Gay 90's.

·11 min read
Warren Webster Patent
Historical Accounts

Warren Webster Enters the Heating Industry

In THAT busy, pushing, turbulent year of 1888, Warren Webster was doing well with his profitable ventilator and brass casting business, but on every hand new enterprises were on the way and he, like all his world, was on the lookout for Opportunity.

·14 min read