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 52

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
Warren Webster - 491 N 3rd Street Philadelphia - circa 1889
Historical Accounts

The Years 1876 to 1888

The year 1888 is the key-year in Warren Webster's business career. His handling of his affairs in that year—at the age of twenty-five, establishes beyond question the quality of his foresight and judgment.

·13 min read
Fetter Lane
Historical Accounts

He Goes to Work

On April 23, 1881, two months before his eighteenth birthday, Warren Webster graduated from Union Business College, now Pierce's Business College, in Philadelphia. His first thought was to get a job.

·6 min read
Philadelphia Centennial - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

1876 — The Centennial

Modern America—mechanical America as we know it, with machinery and devices to facilitate practically every action in life, is a matter of evolution.

·8 min read
Clouds - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Under Lowering Clouds

It is a generally accepted theory that protracted epochs of great mental strain and emotion, such as occasioned by war or pestilence, exert a definite influence on the characters of children born during the period.

·5 min read
Appreciation - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

An Appreciation

"An institution is the lengthened shadow of one man"—never were these oft-quoted words of Emerson more truly applicable than to my father. His character and personality are interwoven in every policy and method of Warren Webster and Company .

·4 min read
Warren Webster
People

Warren Webster

The building, now vacant and boarded up for many decades, once housed a company whose brand was once synonymous with excellence in its field, but has now faded into obscurity.

·2 min read
Friendless Child Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Carol Sampson Feaster - Oral History

Q - Were you baptized and if so, in what religion? A - Protestant. It was a Presbyterian church. I was baptized in this church because I remember being dipped in the water. [ First Presbyterian Church - Ed.] Q- So you were older?

·11 min read