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 6

World War I Draft Card, William May
People

William 'Indian Bill' May

William M. May (1888–1935), known as "Indian Bill," lived in East Camden for more than two decades. He first came to public attention in December 1910 after a suicide attempt following Elsie Staley's rejection of his marriage proposal, and remained a recurring figure in Camden newspaper reports for the next 25 years.

·4 min read
Richard G. Coffman, Camden Fire Department
People

Richard G. Coffman

Richard George Coffman (1947–2004) was born in Philadelphia; his family was living at 1149 North 22nd Street in Cramer Hill from 1956 to as late as 1970. Appointed to the Camden Fire Department on December 30, 1969, he served 25 years — latterly with Engine Company 3 — and retired on February 1, 1995.

·2 min read
Albert E. Collum Jr.
People

Albert E. Collum Jr.

Albert E. Collum Jr. (1936–2016) served the Camden Fire Department for over 26 years, rising to Captain of Engine Company 1. He lived at 2409 Howell Street when appointed in 1964, and was injured in the 1975 fire truck collision at 6th and Pine Streets that killed one person.

·2 min read
Gravestone of Laurence W. Newton
People

Laurence W. Newton

Laurence W. Newton (1896–1946) rose through the Camden Fire Department to Battalion Chief, saving a child from a burning building at Sixth and Van Hook Streets and shutting off a leaking gas main amid flames at Constitution and Argus Roads in 1942. He lived at 2816 Howell Street in East Camden.

·5 min read
John F. Letts and his brother Charlie and a friend on Howell Street
People

John F. Letts

John Francis Letts (1918–1984) served the Camden Fire Department from 1952 to 1981, rising to Battalion Chief. He grew up at 2208 Howell Street, was a founding officer of IAFF Local 2578, and took part in the Easter Monday rescue at North 6th and Penn Streets in 1970.

·6 min read
John D. “Jake” Huelas, Camden Fire Department
People

John D. Huelas

John D. Huelas, born John D. Hulasinski, joined the Camden Fire Department in 1942 and served over 35 years, retiring as Captain in 1978. He lived at 2834 Howell Street in East Camden when he was appointed.

·3 min read
Arthur C. Batten in Camden Fire Department uniform
People

Arthur C. Batten

Arthur Cuellen Batten (1904–1972), known to his fellow firefighters as Artie, joined the Camden Fire Department on March 4, 1927 and served until his retirement on February 28, 1969, rising to captain of Rescue Company 1 and acting battalion chief. He lived for many years at 1132 North 22nd Street in Cramer Hill and invented the un-patented ring cutter used by the rescue company to remove finger jewelry.

·9 min read
John J. O'Neil fire department service card
People

John J. O'Neil

John Joseph O'Neil (1909-1982) was born in Camden and grew up on North 22nd Street in East Camden. Appointed to the Camden Fire Department on July 27, 1938, he served 30 years - taking time away during World War II to serve in the United States Coast Guard - was promoted to District Chief on April 1, 1961, and retired on pension on November 1, 1968.

·2 min read
Firefighters from Engine Company 9 after a fire, December 1928
People

John C. Voll Jr.

John C. Voll Jr. (1900-1979) was born in Camden and served the Camden Fire Department for 40 years, entering the department on January 15, 1925 and retiring on December 1, 1965. He lived his later years at 2737 Garfield Avenue in the Cramer Hill section of Camden.

·5 min read
William Harring Jr., Robert Troutman and Charles Lawyer
People

Charles H. Lawyer

Charles H. Lawyer (1924–1994) served with the Camden Fire Department from 1948 to 1974. Appointed on March 2, 1948 to Engine Company 9 in East Camden, he was promoted to Captain on April 1, 1956 and spent most of his career with Engine Company 6 at Front and Linden Streets. He grew up on North 35th Street in Cramer Hill and later lived at 1032 North 22nd Street.

·2 min read
Grave of Joseph X. Voll at Beverly National Cemetery
People

Joseph X. Voll

Joseph Xavier Voll (1925–1945) of Camden, NJ served as a Fireman First Class in the United States Navy and was one of the original crew of the USS Caswell (AKA-72). He was killed in an accident at Riverton, New Jersey on January 12, 1945, less than a week short of his 20th birthday, and is buried at Beverly National Cemetery in Beverly, NJ.

·3 min read
People

Harry W. Horst

Harry W. Horst (c. 1873–1949) was one of Camden's first hardwood floor contractors, establishing his business in the city in 1910. He lived and worked out of his homes at 1240 North 19th Street and later 1021 North 32nd Street in the Cramer Hill section of Camden.

·2 min read