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!

Coal Stock Photo
HVAC

George B. Newton Coal Company

The George B. Newton Coal Company, established in 1874, operated a coal shipping pier at 801 Wright Avenue in Camden, NJ, closing in the 1950s.

·4 min read
Diamond the Horse - 1936-08-31
People

Diamond

Diamond was a city employee, a white horse that was used by the public works department in its tasks relating to taking care of the grounds at Old Camden Cemetery and New Camden Cemetery .

·1 min read
Memory Stock Photo
People

Soldier's Plots

A burial-record table for the soldiers' plots at New Camden Cemetery, listing each veteran's year, month and day of death, age, and grave location.

·2 min read
Parkade-Building-1958
Buildings

The Parkade Building

5th Street, between Federal and Market Streets, opposite City Hall The Parkade Building was built in the mid-1950s on the site of the Roosevelt Plaza Park .

·2 min read
George S Tempest - 1926
People

George S. Tempest

GEORGE S. TEMPEST was born in Pennsylvania in March of 1869. He lived in Philadelphia virtually his entire life. As a boy, he went to Girard College, a boarding school for poor orphaned and fatherless boys.

·2 min read
Reyouque Hyghcock - 1925-04-15
People

Dr. Reyouque E. H. H. Hyghcock

Looking at the newspaper articles about Dr. Hyghcock, we have the advantage of looking at this from the perspective of today, instead of "as it was happening.

·4 min read
Fireman Stock Photo
People

Thomas T. S. Eastlack

Thomas T. S. Eastlack (1853-1927) was a Camden, NJ firefighter with Engine Company 2 from 1874 to 1876 and an iron foundry engineer and crane operator.

·4 min read
Firmin F Michel - 1941-07-01
People

Firmin F. Michel

FIRMIN F. MICHEL was born in New Jersey around 1900. He married his wife, Gertrude, about 1927. At the time of the 1930 Census, Mr. and Mrs. Michel were renting at 518 Essex Street in Gloucester City NJ.

·2 min read
Joseph V OConnor - 1930-11-26
People

Joseph V. O'Connor

Joseph V. O'Connor (c.1902-1930), aka Joseph Connors, was a Camden, NJ figure shot by John Doris in 1929 and fatally shot in South Camden in 1930.

·2 min read
Haddon Avenue and Federal Street - SW Corner - Circa 1905
Streets

Haddon Avenue

Haddon Avenue is one of Camden's oldest roads, dating to at least 1792 as a bridle path and incorporated as the Haddonfield & Camden Turnpike in 1839. It runs southeast from Federal Street to the city limits toward Collingswood, Haddon Township, and Haddonfield.

·7 min read
Electric Chair Stock Photo
People

Frank Doris

Frank Doris was born in Pennsylvania around 1906 to Joseph Doris Sr. and his wife Mary. His father was born in Pennsylvania, his mother in Ireland.

·2 min read