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!

News Articles

John Paul Gryckiewicz

Death notice for John Paul Gryckiewicz, 87, formerly of Camden, who died June 4, 2006 in New Port Richey, Florida; a retired Camden fire captain of 40 years and a WWII Navy veteran of the USS South Dakota.

·1 min read
Historical Accounts

Richard Heimlich

The Heimlich Family lived at 2631 Carman Street from 1939 to 1967. Richard Heimlich recalls street hucksters, ice deliveries, walking to Garfield, Cramer, and Woodrow Wilson schools, and a childhood with very little crime in East Camden.

·2 min read
Hillman Memorial - 2006-05-20
Historical Accounts

100 Years Later

Story and Photos by Bob Bartosz , Camden NJ Fire Department Photographer On Saturday morning, May 20, 2006 a group of Camden Fire Fighters, Camden County Fire Fighters, retired members of the Fire Force, along with United States Congressman Robert Andrews, Camden City Mayor Gwendolyn A. Faison , Fire Chief Joseph Marini and Msgr.

·10 min read
Obituary for Leonard Edward Oshushek, March 2006
News Articles

Leonard E. Oshushek (Obituary)

The March 2006 Camden Courier-Post obituary of Leonard Edward Oshushek (1918–2006), a retired acting Chief of the Camden Fire Department after 32 years of service, who died at age 87 in Franklinville.

·1 min read
George Torgun
News Articles

George Torgun Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - Februrary 28, 2006 On February 24, 2006; Of Gloucester City, NJ; Age 82. Beloved husband of the late Gertrude Mary (nee Kane). Brother of the late Nicholas.

·1 min read
News Articles

Mary M. Gryckiewicz

Death notice for Mary M. Gryckiewicz, 82, of New Port Richey, Florida, formerly of Camden, who died November 7, 2005; wife of retired Camden fire captain John P. Gryckiewicz.

·1 min read
News Articles

Wilson Adams Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - October 26, 2005 Age 69, of Camden. Died Friday, October 21, 2005, in Cooper Medical Center, Camden. ADAMS, WILSON EPHRAIM - Born in Camden, NJ, he has been a life long area resident.

·2 min read
Drinking in a bar - AI Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Rittenhouse Comment

My grandmother and grandfather were the owners of the store at 941 Point Street . My father was his son… his name was Francis Hull Rittenhouse . He worked at Mathis Shipyard and so did my uncle John Rittenhouse .

·1 min read
The changing faces of leadership: Alfred R. Pierce is flanked by his parents, Russell and Viola, after he won re-election as mayor of Camden in 1965. Courier-Post photo.
News Articles

Alfred R. Pierce, Obituary

Camden Courier-Post - September 16, 2005 Former Mayor of the City of Camden from 1959 through 1969, died on September 14, 2005 at the Masonic Home of New Jersey in Burlington.

·2 min read
Beer - Stock Photo
Historical Accounts

Camden Beer Memory

From 1948 to 1951 when I worked at the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, after work we the people that worked there went to the Greenwich Bar on Greenwich Street, downtown New York for a few beers.

·1 min read
2419 Arnold Street fire, April 20, 2005
Historical Accounts

2419 Arnold Street — April 20, 2005

A reported dwelling fire with an infant trapped was dispatched at 0042 hours on April 20, 2005, at 2419 Arnold Street. Crews searched the structure with negative results and contained the fire to one unit.

·1 min read
News Articles

Fire at 1135 Baring Street

Camden Fire Department report: a two-story vacant row dwelling at 1135 Baring Street erupted in heavy smoke, requiring Engine 8, the Rescue Company, and two ladder companies to extinguish a rear-bedroom fire.

·1 min read