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 69

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.

·17 min read
Railroad Avenue - Sanborn Map - 550 Block of Chelton St - 1906
Streets

Railroad Avenue

Railroad Avenue ran from Kaighn Avenue to Jefferson Street in Camden. The page includes a 1906 Sanborn Map of its west side from Chelton Avenue to Bulson Street.

·1 min read
Perry Street - Sanborn Map - 1906
Streets

Perry Street

Perry Street was a small street running south from 1044 Line Street for one block to Pine Street. By the 1960s it was razed along with Line Street east of St. Mihiel Street, including Jane and Ringold Streets.

·1 min read
Wharf Stock Photo
People

Charles Hunt

Charles Hunt was born on March 29, 1900. Charles, also known as 'Chick' Hunt, registered for the draft on September 12, 1918.

·2 min read
Sepia photograph of a large stone school building with a pointed corner tower and a church spire behind it.
Camden Catholic High School

Camden Catholic High School

Camden Catholic High School at Broadway and Federal Street began in 1896 as the Lyceum. The cornerstone of its new school was laid on October 18, 1923; after a fire badly damaged it on April 17, 1960, a new Camden Catholic High School was built outside the city at Route 38 and Cuthbert Road.

·4 min read
Eagles Hall circa 1914
Buildings

Eagles Hall

Eagles Hall at 413-417 Broadway in Camden, built in 1908 by the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie No. 65 and destroyed by fire in 1968.

·2 min read
Hurley Store in Camden
Retail

Hurley's Department Store

Founded in 1890, Hurley's Department Store was a fixture in the Camden and South Jersey retail business scene until 1956, when the Hurley family closed the business.

·2 min read
Barry-L-Ruban-Motorcycle
People

Barry L. Ruban

Greg Ruban was a man of many talents, from East Camden. He was an electrician for his father and, later, his brother Ronald, Sr. He then went to work as an electrician for Camden County and retired from the NJ State Highway Department.

·2 min read
Nettor Avenue
Streets

Nettor Avenue

Nettor Avenue is a one-way alley running east from Roanoke Road for one block in Camden's Fairview section, giving rear access to the Fairview Court Apartments and homes on North Collings and Alabama Roads.

·1 min read
A cobblestone street at night, lit by gas-style lamps, with trees and old brick and stone buildings on both sides.
Streets

New Hampshire Road

New Hampshire Road runs from South Collings Road south until it dead ends, crossing South Merrimac Road in Camden's Fairview section. With New Jersey Road it connects Collings and Merrimac, with no addresses of its own.

·1 min read