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!

Joseph B Van Sciver
People

Joseph B. Van Sciver

Joseph Bishop Van Sciver was born on May 14, 1861, in Hainesport, New Jersey. He grew up in Camden and attended the E. A. Stevens School . In 1881, he founded his furniture manufacturing and retail business in a small shop at 210 Federal Street .

·2 min read
Gustav A Koerner - 1935-08-31
People

Gustav A. Koerner

Born on August 17, 1896, Gustav Albert Koerner Sr. had a long and distinguished career with the Camden Police Department. He began his service on June 16, 1923, and quickly rose through the ranks.

·2 min read
The First Camden County Courthouse, circa 1904
Government

Camden County Courthouse

The act that established Camden County required an election to determine the county seat, held on August 12, 1845. Camden won 1062 votes, Gloucester 822, Haddonfield 422, and Mount Ephraim 33, with a total of 2339 votes.

·5 min read
David S Paul - Reward
People

David S. Paul

David Silvers Paul was born in Pennsylvania around May of 1863 to David R. Paul and Sarah Hulings. He had a younger sister named Sarah "Saddie" Paul.

·2 min read
Lawrence T Doran - 1930-04-01
People

Lawrence T. Doran

Lawrence "Larry" T. Doran was born in 1879 in New Jersey. He married his wife Catherine shortly after the turn of the century.

·1 min read
Waldorfs Tavern - 2003-09-21
Bars and Clubs

Waldorf Tavern

The Waldorf Tavern at 4100 Federal Street in Camden, NJ, began as a liquor store and became a bar by 1966, later Cafaro's and Roman's Waldorf Tavern.

·1 min read
Police Stock Photo
People

George Ellis

George Ellis was a member of the Camden, NJ Police Department who was promoted to Detective on September 26, 1944 by Chief of Police George W. Frost.

·1 min read
Bar Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

Briggs Cafe

Briggs Cafe was a tavern at 1197 Lansdowne Avenue in Camden's Whitman Park neighborhood, run by the Derengowski and Briggs families from about 1942.

·1 min read
Bar Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

Walt's Cafe

Walt's Cafe was a bar at 1197 Lansdowne Avenue in Camden, NJ, in the late 1960s and early 1970s, formerly Briggs Cafe and later the Camelot Lounge.

·1 min read
Louis J Pilcher - 1931
People

Louis J. Pilcher

Dr. Louis J. Pilcher served as City Planner for the City of Camden in 1930 and 1931. Louis J Pilcher - 1931

·1 min read
Samuel M Shay - 1926
People

Samuel M. Shay

Samuel M. Shay was a prominent figure in Camden County during the early 20th century. Born around 1885 in New Jersey, he was appointed as Judge of the Common Pleas Court in Camden County by Governor Edwards in 1922.

·2 min read
Baird Boulevard at Federal Street - 2004-02-26
Streets

Baird Boulevard

Baird Boulevard (originally Baird Avenue) runs diagonally through the Parkside and East Camden neighborhoods, named for Camden businessman and U.S. Senator David Baird Sr. It begins at Kaighn Avenue, crosses the Cooper River and Admiral Wilson Boulevard, and terminates at the intersection of Federal Street and 27th Street in East Camden.

·14 min read