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!

Alfred R Pierce, Camden Mayor
People

Alfred R. Pierce

Alfred R. Pierce, son of Russell and Viola Pierce, grew up in Camden and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1939.

·2 min read
Cooper-Hospital-1887
Historical Accounts

The Cooper Hospital (via Camden County Medical Society)

Note: This content comes from the book Camden County Medical Society, 1846-1956 The founding of a hospital for the care of the sick and injured in the Camden area had long been a project in the mind of Dr. Richard M. Cooper, who practiced medicine in this vicinity for over thirty years.

·4 min read
Blank Profile Stock Photo
People

William Penn Corson

William Penn Corson, commonly known as W. Penn Corson, was born on February 27, 1873, in Camden, New Jersey. He was the son of Elias Lake Corson, a sea captain who had commanded a vessel during the Civil War.

·3 min read
Newspaper Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

William P. Corson - An Excerpt

WILLIAM PENN CORSON - An active factor in the modern development of Camden and vicinity, a native of the city, a credit to his ancestry and the community, Mr. Corson is widely known and esteemed for manly worth and public spirit.

·3 min read
Bar Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

The Alpha Club

The ALPHA CLUB was a social club that consisted mostly of young men from South Camden in the years prior to World War I. The club appears to have organized in 1906, and was active as late as 1917.

·1 min read
713-S.-3rd-Street-2003-02-11-1
Bars and Clubs

Vasco's Cafe

713 S. 3rd Street, Camden, NJ From the late 1900s through 1920 the saloon at 713 South 3rd Street was the home and place of business of Antonio DiPaolo , who would in 1919 found the First Italian Bank in Camden.

·2 min read
Donkey's Place
Bars and Clubs

Donkey's Place

Donkey's Place, the Camden tavern at 1223 Haddon Avenue opened by boxer Leon Lucas in 1943, famous for its steak sandwiches on a poppy seed roll.

·2 min read
Nurse Stock Photo
People

Annie Eisenhardt

The Camden Mystery Was she or wasn't she? On January 26, 1889 nurse Annie Eisenhardt was found cut and bleeding in a restroom at Cooper Hospital .

·1 min read
Marriage Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Camden County Marriages

By H. Stanley Craig, circa 1932 Marriages from 1844 through 1890 comprise the bulk of this work, including marriages for residents of present-day Washington and Monroe Townships. in Gloucester County between 1844-1871. This PDF file is searchable!

·1 min read
Newspaper Stock Photo
News

Camden Times

The Camden Times was founded in 1894 as The Stockton Times by George Lang. In 1897 Charles W. Miller of 1046 North 18th Street became the editor and publisher. Unfortunately, Charles Miller was killed in a railroad accident in 1901.

·1 min read
Bar Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

Baker's Bar and Grill

Baker's Bar & Grill at 45 York Street in Camden, a corner tavern dating to the 1880s and known mid-century as Joe's and Sloppy Joe's.

·2 min read