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 66

Marine Sniper Stock Photo
People

Soldier's Row

A roster of burials in Soldiers' Row at New Camden Cemetery, listing each veteran's name, burial date and grave number.

·1 min read
Pallbearers in dark suits carry a white casket topped with white flowers at a funeral.
Government

New Camden Cemetery

New Camden Cemetery, at Mount Ephraim and Ferry Avenues in Camden, NJ, opened in 1887 and holds veterans' plots and historic Jewish sections.

·4 min read
Skylar the Horse 2
People

Skylar

Skylar served for ten years under the Camden Police Mounted Unit before he was retired as a Rutgers University Mounted Patrol, which is the only student-run mounted unit in the nation.

·1 min read
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