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 84

Frank J. Suttil, 1950
People

Frank J. Suttill

Frank J. Suttill, born on September 8, 1893, in Pennsylvania, made significant contributions to Camden County's political and civic life. His family relocated to Camden County in 1902, marking the beginning of his long association with the area.

·2 min read
Victor King - circa 1926
People

Victor King

Victor King, born in Pennsylvania in 1874, established his residence in Camden after 1911, where he purchased a home at 3197 Federal Street and ventured into business.

·2 min read
Portrait of Rabbi Naftali Riff, a bearded man in a dark hat and round glasses
People

Rabbi Naftoly Riff

Rabbi Naftoly H.J. Riff (1893-1976) led Congregation Sons of Israel on South 8th Street in Camden, New Jersey for nearly 50 years from the early 1920s.

·17 min read
Lewis Liberman, 1924
People

Lewis Liberman

Lewis Liberman (1894-1941) was a Camden, New Jersey attorney, World War I veteran, and Police Court judge who also served as assistant city solicitor.

·5 min read
Alter Barbell Tombstone, circa 2005
People

Alter Barbel

Alter Barbell, born on January 24, 1877, in Pruzany, Russia, embarked on a journey to the United States via Hamburg.

·2 min read
Towers Theater - 1950
Buildings

Towers Theatre

The Towers Theatre on Broadway and Pine Street predated movies, and featured both film and live entertainment into the 1950s.

·2 min read
Thomas J. Daley, Camden city engineer, portrait, c. 1931
People

Thomas J. Daley

Thomas J. Daley (born 1889) was a civil engineer who joined Camden's engineering department in 1913 and was appointed City Engineer in 1925, serving during construction of the new City Hall and marine terminal.

·4 min read
Samuel T French Sr - 1926
People

Samuel T. French, Sr.

Samuel Jones Tilden French Sr., born into the family of William Nelson and Mary Caroline Collins French on January 23, 1877, carried a significant historical legacy as a great-great-grandson of American naval Captain Micajah Smith.

·3 min read
Sepia postcard photo of a damaged brick building and debris on a street, labeled "Camden Cyclone."
Streets

2nd Street

2nd Street extends north-south between Front Street and 3rd Street, running parallel to the Delaware River until Mechanic Street. In the early 1970s, several buildings were cleared on the east side of North 2nd Street below Mickle Street to make way for the Royal Court townhomes and Mickle Tower senior citizens apartment building.

·38 min read
Milton Milan
People

Milton Milan

MILTON MILAN was a former mayor of Camden and one of three Camden mayors to be arrested on corruption charges. Wikipedia describes him as follows: Milton Milan is an american Democratic politician.

·2 min read
Aaron A Thompson Profile Photo
People

Camden's Mayors

A chronological list of Camden's mayors from Samuel Lanning, elected in 1828, to Victor Carstarphen, in office since 2021, with each mayor's term and political party where recorded.

·1 min read