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!

Edwin S. Wirtz, Camden Courier-Post, February 5, 1952
People

Edwin S. Wirtz

Edwin Stanley Wirtz (1914–1975), son of Camden policeman Stanley R. Wirtz and grandson of Camden fireman James McDade, was appointed to the Camden Fire Department in October 1943 and served 22 years, retiring in October 1965 as an inspector in the Fire Marshal's office.

·3 min read
John M. Peterson World War I draft registration card, front
People

John M. Peterson

John Martin Peterson (1892-1971) served the Camden Fire Department for 36 years with Engine Company 11, from his appointment in 1919 to his retirement on pension in 1956. A veteran of the First Division in France, he was twice wounded in World War I and received the Order of the Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster.

·2 min read
Camden Division of Fire personnel record — Thomas C. Blair Jr.
People

Thomas C. Blair Jr.

Thomas C. Blair Jr. (1925–2003) was a Camden firefighter who was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on December 30, 1950, rose from fireman to captain and then Battalion Chief in December 1969, and retired on February 1, 1981.

·2 min read
Corporal John J. Gorman, World War II
People

John J. Gorman

John J. Gorman (1922–1944) of 1040 North 19th Street in the Cramer Hill section of Camden served as a Corporal in Company C, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. He was killed October 2, 1944 during the siege of Aachen, Germany, and is buried at New St. Mary's Cemetery in Bellmawr, NJ.

·2 min read
Charles Behrend studio portrait in U.S. Army uniform
People

Charles Behrend

Charles Behrend of Camden, NJ served as a Private First Class in Company C, 309th Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division. He was killed in action on September 25, 1918 during the Battle of St. Mihiel and is buried at St. Mihiel American Cemetery in Thiaucourt, France.

·2 min read
A. Wayne Kraft fire department record card
People

A. Wayne Kraft

A. Wayne Kraft (1934–2007), born Adelbert Wayne Kraft in Camden, grew up at 903 North 19th Street in Cramer Hill and served in the United States Army as a Specialist 4th Class. Appointed to the Camden Fire Department on June 29, 1962, he served more than 25 years before retiring on pension on February 1, 1988, and died on June 9, 2007.

·1 min read
Officer George E. Schultz Jr., Camden Police Department
People

George E. Schultz Jr.

Officer George E. Schultz Jr. (1942–1969) joined the Camden Police Department in November 1968 and was killed by a gunman on July 5, 1969 at the age of 26, alongside his Academy classmate Officer Charles Sutman.

·2 min read
William Stanley Ablett Village
Buildings

William Stanley Ablett Village

William Stanley Ablett Village is a 306-unit public housing project at River Road and State Street in the Cramer Hill section of Camden, built by the Housing Authority of the City of Camden during World War II and named for a Camden soldier killed in action in France during World War I.

·19 min read
William E. Hinch II fire department record card, page 1
People

William E. Hinch II

William E. Hinch II (1941–1976) was a Camden firefighter. Born in Camden and living at 1113 North 18th Street in Cramer Hill, he was appointed to the Camden Fire Department in 1969 and served with Engine Company 7 on Kaighn Avenue and later Engine Company 9 in East Camden. He died on April 26, 1976 of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

·2 min read
Private Harvey W. Blackwell Jr., World War II
People

Harvey W. Blackwell Jr.

Harvey W. Blackwell Jr. of Camden, NJ served as a Private in the 13th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Division. He was killed in action May 30, 1944 during the breakout from Anzio and is memorialized on the Tablets of the Missing at the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery, Nettuno, Italy.

·2 min read
William E. Jaeckel fire department personnel record
People

William E. Jaeckel

William E. "Pud" Jaeckel (1888–1961) joined the Camden Fire Department in 1920 and served over thirty years with Engine Company 9 at North 27th and Federal Streets in East Camden, retiring on pension in January 1951.

·4 min read
Adelbert 'Duke' Kirk Sr. portrait
People

Adelbert J. "Duke" Kirk Sr.

Adelbert J. "Duke" Kirk Sr. (1918-1989) was a Camden firefighter who was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on November 16, 1956 and served with Engine Company 3 until his retirement on December 1, 1981.

·3 min read