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 65

Fireman Stock Photo
People

Isaac Anderson

ISAAC ANDERSON was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on November 6, 1872 to serve as Driver with Engine Company 2 . His brother John Anderson was appointed to Engine Company 2 on February 8, 1873 as driver.

·2 min read
Herbert-Anderson-1930-12-15
People

Herbert Anderson

Herbert Anderson was born in New Jersey in 1891 to George W. Anderson and his wife Lizzie Anderson, one of at least four children. His father served as a member of the Camden Police Department from the 1890s through at least 1916.

·2 min read
Catholic Stained Glass Stock Photo
People

Stephen Decatur Button

STEPHEN DECATUR BUTTON was born on June 15, 1813 in Preston CT to Roswell and Lydia Avery Button. He apprenticed for five years to his Uncle Samuel Button, a carpenter, at the age of sixteen.

·4 min read
Wildey-Hall-Fire-1956-10-27-4
Buildings

Wildey Hall

Wildey Hall, at 500-506 Pine Street in Camden, NJ, was built in 1868 by the Odd Fellows' Wildey Lodge No. 91 and was destroyed by fire in 1956.

·2 min read
Studebaker Truck Stock Photo
People

V. McClellan Fulton

V. McCLELLAN FULTON was born in Maryland around 1884. He had his first Studebaker dealership in 1909, and married at the age of 27. Known as "Mac" Fulton, he operated a Studebaker automobile agency in Camden for at least 30 years.

·1 min read
Captain-Charles-T-Humes
People

Charles T. Humes, Jr.

Charles Taylor Humes Jr. was born in Camden, New Jersey, to parents Charles T. and Mary Humes. At the age of four during the 1880 Census, he was the eldest child in the family, with his younger brother George born in 1879.

·2 min read
Stephen-Parsons-1886
People

Stephen Parsons

STEPHEN PARSONS came to Camden in 1844. He operated a hotel at Federal Street and Front Street , near the Federal Street Ferry with partner Richard Cake which was known as Woolston's Hotel.

·2 min read
Hotel-Ridgway-1914
Hotels and Motels

Hotel Ridgway

The Hotel Ridgway at Delaware Avenue and Market Street in Camden, NJ, was built in 1849 as the West Jersey Hotel and operated into the 1950s.

·2 min read
William Van Pfefferle
People

William Van Pfefferle

William Van Pfefferle was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 17, 1891. William Van Pfefferle married Elsie Maxwell. Her father, Joseph Maxwell , was a career Camden Fire Department fire fighter.

·14 min read
Grainy 1952 aerial view of Main Street at Point Street, Camden, with rows of buildings and streets.
Streets

Main Street

Main Street is a diagonal street in North Camden running southeast from State and Point Streets. The 1878 city directory listed it as starting at the Vine Street Ferry.

·17 min read
Marine Sniper Stock Photo
Businesses

Stockton Park

Stockton Park, a 90-acre rifle range and pleasure resort in the Wrightsville section of East Camden, NJ, was organized in 1866 by Civil War veterans.

·2 min read