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 68

John G Hutchison
People

John G. Hutchison

CAPTAIN JOHN GRIER HUTCHISON "sailed the seven seas" before marrying a girl from Camden and settling in the city.

·1 min read
Martin W Baskow - 1967-07-15
People

Martin W. Baskow

MAURICE WILLIAM "MARTY" BASKOW was born in Pennsylvania to Abraham and Rose Baskoff. The Social Security Death Index, shows a birthday of January 9, 1908.

·2 min read
Black-and-white photo of Jersey Joe Walcott in boxing gloves and white trunks, standing in a guarded pose.
People

Arnold R. Cream (aka Jersey Joe Walcott)

Arnold Raymond Cream, known as Jersey Joe Walcott, was born on January 31, 1914, outside Camden and worked at the Campbell Soup factory before turning to professional boxing. At 37, on his fourth attempt, he won the world heavyweight title; he was later elected Sheriff of Camden County in 1971 and died in Camden on February 25, 1994.

·2 min read
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 H. "Boston" Corbett

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

·5 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 "Donkey" Lucas (1901–1971): 1928 U.S. Olympic boxer, sparring partner to Max Schmeling, and founder of Camden's iconic Donkey's Place tavern.

·3 min read