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!

Acme Staple Company, 1930
Businesses

Acme Staple Company

The Acme Staple Company, a staple and stapler maker founded in 1894, operated at 1643-1647 Haddon Avenue in Camden, New Jersey from 1909 until 1959.

·1 min read
Broadway Trust Building 1926
Banks

Broadway Trust

The Broadway Trust Company, a bank built before World War I at 938-944 Broadway in Camden, New Jersey, operated until shortly after the 1929 crash.

·2 min read
People

Alice Burdsall

Alice Burdsall was born in Pennsylvania around 1873. First appointed a teacher in Camden in 1908, she rented a room from Sarah Wescott of 108 Broadway at the time of the 1910 census.

·1 min read
Historical Accounts

Leon Todd from South Jersey: A History 1624 - 1924

LEON EDGAR TODD --Substantial reasons for Camden's continuous growth and advancement in recent years, are furnished in the development of the real estate plans of Leon E. Todd, one of the city's most prominent realtors and builders in South Jersey, whose extensive general brokerage business and building interests have aroused State-wide attention.

·4 min read
The-Floating-Nightclub-on-the-Cooper-River
Businesses

The Floating Nightclub on the Cooper River

In 1930's a well-known Camden professional basketball star, Roy Steele , went into the bar business. He first operated the Browning Lake Inn which was located on an old lake on the Little Timber Creek in Bellmawr.

·2 min read
Man O'War, Felix Bocchicchio
Historical Accounts

The Gangster, Jersey Joe & The Bo-Bet

The history of a Mt Ephraim hotel reveals a story that could have been script for Hollywood movie staring James Cagney or Edward G Robinson. Felix Bocchicchio was born in the coal mining region of Central Pennsylvania in 1906.

·4 min read
Edward J Borden, Sr, 1933-06-09.  Edward J. Borden who was the guest of honor at a testimonial dinner in the Camden Club last night on the occasion of his election as president of the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. The dinner also marked his twentieth wedding anniversary, and Mrs. Borden was similarly feted at another dinner.
People

Edward J. Borden

EDWARD J. BORDEN SR. was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 12, 1888 to John and Beatrice Borden, both of whom were born in Canada. The elder Borden was a boilermaker by trade.

·3 min read
Leon Todd, Sr., 1926
People

Leon E. Todd, Sr.

Leon Edgar Todd Sr. was born in Camden NJ on November 22, 1893. He operated his real estate agency for many years in Camden at 2623 Westfield Avenue , a building designed by the Camden architectural firm of Lackey & Hettel .

·2 min read
Sports

Zuni Athletic Association

The Zuni Athletic Association sponsored semi-pro sports teams as early as the spring of 1930 and into the early 60s. It appears to have founded in that year.

·3 min read