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!

Engine Company 1 - 1949
Historical Accounts

Engine Company 1

April 1948- In the company office of Engine Company 1, South 4th & Pine Streets. (Seated) Captain Raymond Amos; (standing) Captain Jesse Jones.

·2 min read
Pine Street Camden NJ c1908
Streets

Pine Street

One of Camden's original tree-named streets.

·2 min read
Baring Street from Kaighn Ave - 2004-03-14
Streets

Baring Street

Baring Street runs for one block in South Camden, from Chestnut Street south to Kaighn Avenue, between Marion Street and South 6th Street. The homes were built in 1888 by Wilson Ernst, one of Camden's most active builders of the 1880s.

·1 min read

The Streets of Camden

Note: All numbered streets in Camden, NJ are "North" if above Federal Street and "South" if below Federal St . As an example, " North 4th Street " would mean that it's north of Federal, while South 8th street would mean it is south of Federal.

·15 min read
Firefighters Attacking a Fire - Stock Photo
People

George B. Anderson

George B. Anderson was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on September 18, 1872, as a replacement extra man with Engine Company 2 . He filled the position left by William S. Davis , who had been promoted to Engineer.

·6 min read
Raymond T. Amos
People

Raymond T. Amos

RAYMOND T. AMOS was born in Frankford, Delaware on December 28, 1905 to Albert and Catherine Amos. His father was a minister. The family had moved to Camden by the summer of 1910 and taken up residence at 1004 Central Avenue .

·3 min read
Harold Amos
People

Harold Amos

HAROLD AMOS was born in Pennsauken, New Jersey. He graduated first in his class from Camden High School in 1936. After graduating from Springfield University in 1941, Harold Amos served in the United States Army in Europe during World War II.

·1 min read
Eugene Alston
People

Eugene F. Alston

EUGENE F. ALSTON was born October 16, 1919 in Camden to Richard Alston and his wife, the former Dolly Robinson. His father had been born in 1891 in Henderson, North Carolina.

·3 min read
Leonard Avenue - 2011-12-03
Streets

Leonard Avenue

Leonard Avenue runs one block from Federal Street to Westfield Avenue in East Camden, built in 1915 on land that had been part of St. Patrick's Cemetery.

·6 min read
428 Berkley Street, Camden NJ, November 2017
Streets

Berkley Street

Berkley Street runs through South Camden from Buren Avenue to Haddon Avenue, named for Lord Berkeley, one of the original proprietors of colonial New Jersey. The section east of Broadway was once known as Hamilton Street until 1882.

·1 min read