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!

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Fire Department

Fairview Alarm Activation

December 15, 2013 This page and the other pages in this series are the successors to the series of web-page about the Camden Fire Department.

·1 min read
Boats and Vapors - 2013-11-28 - 2
Fire Department

Camden Fire Department - Boats and Vapors

For a few years on Thanksgiving and Christmas, Phil Cohen had been dropping off a dozen donuts at each of the firehouses in Camden, usually in the evening. This day, November 28, 2013, was a little different and "the donut run" was done at mid-day.

·1 min read
News Articles

Henry Yip Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - October 1, 2013 Henry A. Yip, Sr. AGE: 66 • Magnolia Henry A. Yip, Sr. passed away at his home September 25, 2013. Henry was born in Germany in 1947 to Ilse Yip and the late Arthur Yip.

·2 min read
Fire at 811 S 5th Street - 8900-01a-bk
Fire Department

Camden Fire Department - 811 S. 5th Street

January 1, 2012 The first fire of 2012 in Camden came before noon, when an abandoned dwelling at 811 Pine Street was set ablaze. Camden firefighter Gabriel Angemi put it in a few understated words.

·5 min read
The Postcard
Phil Cohen

A Postcard's Story

By Phil Cohen One Postcard, Two Destinations, Three Continents, Six People, and One Hundred and Two Years The Mystery The postcard above was mailed on October 5, 1910 from Camden, New Jersey to Miss Ella Kremo at the Tivoli Theater in Sydney, Australia.

·17 min read
News Articles

Firefighter Injured in Camden Blaze

A Camden City firefighter was hospitalized for heat-related issues after a one-alarm fire gutted a vacant former beauty salon at 940 Haddon Avenue on July 29, 2011.

·1 min read