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!

Bars and Clubs

Four Point Cafe, Inc.

Four Point Cafe, a Camden bar at 1 Haddon Avenue at Federal Street from the late 1940s into the 1960s; the site has held a McDonald's since around 1990.

·1 min read
Historical Accounts

Memories from Ted Cannon

A first-person reminiscence by Ted Cannon recalling 1940s and early 1950s life on Mickle Street in Camden, New Jersey before he left for the Air Force.

·1 min read
Politics - Elephant and Donkey - Stock Photo
Bars and Clubs

Third Ward Democratic Club

The Third Ward Democratic Club, a Camden political and social club on South 3rd Street in the 1930s and 1940s, associated with Mayor George Brunner.

·1 min read
At lower left, the old Rickshaw Inn can be seen. The racetrack circle is at the far right, Terry Chigounis' Greenbriar Inn stood right on the circle. The Cherry Hill municipal building is on the right about midway up.
Businesses

Garden State Park and Racetrack

Garden State Park, the thoroughbred racetrack opened in 1942 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, rebuilt after a 1977 fire and closed in 2001 after 58 years.

·5 min read
Admiral Wilson Blvd - Camden NJ - 1958
Streets

Admiral Wilson Boulevard

Admiral Wilson Boulevard (US Route 30) runs from the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to Airport Circle, named after World War I naval hero Admiral Henry Braid Wilson Jr. of Camden — originally designated as Bridge Boulevard when it opened.

·3 min read
Crescent Boulevard, looking south — 1930s
Streets

Crescent Boulevard

Crescent Boulevard is the street name assigned to US Route 130, which passes through Camden at four points: in East Camden, just south of the Cooper River, from south of the railroad tracks toward Haddon Township, and from Mount Ephraim Avenue to Newton Creek at Camden's extreme southern end.

·2 min read
Community Motors Ford, 1934
Car Dealerships

Berglund Motor Company

Edmund Berglund was operating a Ford dealership called Community Motors on Crescent Boulevard in Collingswood NJ in 1934.

·1 min read
Judson Place, a quiet court off Stevens Street in South Camden, photographed September 15, 1932
Streets

Judson Place

Judson Place ran for half a block north from 437 Stevens Street between West Street and South 5th Street in South Camden. Its two homes, at 439 and 441 Judson Place, were occupied as late as 1947 but have long since been razed.

·1 min read
Edward Eldred, 1966
People

Edward Eldred

EDWARD WIETT ELDRED III was a career officer in the Camden Police Department. His grandparents, Edward and Lydia Eldred, had come to Camden sometime after 1930 and had settled at 231 North 3rd Street by 1942.

·1 min read
1000 Block of Line Street
Streets

Line Street

Was named because it followed the finally settled.

·1 min read
Second Convention Hall - Third Regiment Armory
Buildings

Convention Hall

Camden, NJ had two Convention Halls: the first on Memorial Avenue at Line Street, the second the former Third Regiment Armory on Mickle Street.

·5 min read
Berkley Hall in August of 2003
Buildings

Berkley Hall

Berkley Hall, built in 1895 at 601 Berkley Street in Camden, New Jersey, housed grocery stores including the A&P for decades and was later converted to apartments.

·2 min read