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!

Emerson Baseball Team - Undated
Sports

Emerson Athletic Club

aka Emerson Athletic Association of Camden, NJ The Emerson Athletic Club sponsored baseball, football, and basketball teams in Camden from 1908 through at least 1922. The club was based in Camden's Eighth Ward.

·2 min read
Greenetz and Pelicoff Jewelers - 1921
Jewelers

Greenetz and Greenetz

Greenetz and Greenetz, a Camden jewelry store run by brothers Michael and Joseph Greenetz on Broadway from the 1920s until it closed in 1956.

·1 min read
People

George Nowrey

GEORGE NOWREY was born in Glendon PA, a few miles from Easton, in 1862. His family moved to Camden when he was 11. His brother was Joseph E. Nowrey , Democratic politician from Camden who served as the city's Mayor from 1902 to 1905.

·2 min read
Ghost Sniper - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Camden NJ's 'Ghost Sniper'

Reminiscent of the Washington DC Sniper attacks, Camden had its own in the late 1920's which was quite the mystery of its time. There are dozens of articles about it, to be uploaded over time, and the sniper had 48 "victims" over two months.

·1 min read
Borstein's Electric, Storefront. Circa 1943
Utilities

Borstein Electric Company

The Borstein Electric Company was operated in Camden, NJ by Isadore and Meyer Borstein. The Borstein brothers were the sons of Joseph and Celia Borstein.

·4 min read
Cooper-Street-Postcard-East-of-4th-St
Streets

Cooper Street

One of Camden's oldest and most storied streets, named after the Cooper family. Covers the full length from the waterfront to the 2000 block, including the Victor Talking Machine Company, Esterbrook Pen Company, Johnson Park, the Hotel Plaza, the Walt Whitman Hotel, the Elks Lodge, and East Camden's other Cooper Street.

·9 min read
North 38th Street looking south from Federal Street, 2011
Streets

38th Street

Thirty-Eighth Street runs south from Jersey Avenue to Camden Avenue in East Camden, crossing Westfield Avenue and High Street, then picks up again for one block between Federal Street and Fremont Street.

·3 min read
Bar Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

Bert's Cafe

Bert's Cafe, a bar at 1226 Broadway in Camden run by Bert Bottura from the late 1950s into the early 1970s, formerly Buradine's and later the Tender Trap.

·1 min read