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!

Lumber Trees Stock Photo
Manufacturing and Hardware

DuBell Lumber Company

18th & Federal Streets , Camden, NJ William C. DuBell moved from Northampton Township in Burlington County to Camden at some point between 1880 and 1887. Once in Camden he found work as a teamster for the Volney Bennett Lumber Company.

·1 min read
Bar Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

Nine-Thirty-Nine Bar

The Nine-Thirty-Nine Bar at 939 Market Street in Camden, NJ, operated from the 1930s until razed in the 1980s for the Route 676 interstate.

·2 min read
Boston-Corbett-Straight-Forward
People

Thomas P. "Boston" Corbett

Thomas P. "Boston" Corbett, the Union Army sergeant who shot John Wilkes Booth in 1865, later lived in Camden, New Jersey and preached at local churches.

·7 min read
Frank M Lario - 1936-08-06
People

Frank M. Lario, Sr.

FRANK M. LARIO SR. was born on February 22, 1907 in Pennsylvania to Rocco and Mary Lario. His parents had been born in Italy. Rocco Lario had come to America in 1898, Mary Lario coming in 1906.

·2 min read
John Tisa - Military
People

John Tisa

JOHN TISA was born in April 6, 1914 in Philadelphia, PA to Sicilian immigrant parents Benedetto and Maria Tisa.

·4 min read
William Laute Saloon - 701 Fairview Street - Circa 1903
People

William Laute

William Laute (1871–1949), a German-born Camden saloonkeeper at 701 Fairview Street whose liquor business led to repeated run-ins with the law.

·3 min read
Boxing Stock Photo
People

Frank McLaughlin

FRANCIS J." FRANK" McLAUGHLIN was born in Camden, New Jersey on July 11, 1900 to William McLaughlin Sr. and his wife the former Margaret Maguire, most likely at 1165 Ross Street , where the family had been living when the Census was taken on June 4.

·2 min read
Leon Lucas Boxing Card
People

Leon Lucas

Leon Lucas (1901–1971), Camden boxer who reached the 1928 U.S. Olympic team as a light heavyweight and later founded the famed Donkey's Place tavern.

·2 min read
Streets

Roy Street

ROY STREET ran east for one block from North 7th Street to North 8th Street, laying between Federal and Market Streets.

·1 min read
Yorkship Square - Fairview - 1925
Neighborhoods

Fairview

Fairview is the area of Camden also known as Yorkship Village, which was built to house the workers of the New York Shipbuilding Company .

·1 min read
Northeast view of 8th Street from Ferry Avenue, Camden NJ, 2011
Streets

8th Street

Eighth Street runs south to north, with a few major interruptions, from Morgan Boulevard to Pyne Point in North Camden — one of Camden's longest thoroughfares.

·1 min read