Welcome to Camden History

400 Block of Federal Street Postcard, circa 1890

Photo above is from the 400 block of Federal Street in approximately 1890.



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.

Whatever your interest, we invite you to join us, have a virtual coffee, subscribe to our email updates, and contribute your own insights.

Remnants of Camden’s history are all around you if you know where to look!


Latest Posts

  • 30th Street
    Thirtieth Street extends from the Delaware River southward, crossing River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yard. It continues to Westfield Avenue and Federal Street, leading to the intersection of Line Street and Beacon Avenue, just above Waldorf Avenue. Similar to all numbered streets in Camden, it is referred to as North 30th Street above… Read more: 30th Street
  • 29th Street
    Twenty-Ninth Street extends from the Delaware River southward, crossing River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yards. It resumes at Pleasant Street, proceeding to Westfield Avenue. Further, it resumes at Federal Street, extending southward to Clinton Street. Similar to all numbered streets in Camden, it is referred to as North 29th Street above Federal and… Read more: 29th Street
  • 28th Street
    Twenty-Eighth Street spans from the Delaware River, proceeding southward across River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yard. It continues its path to Westfield Avenue, extending further to Federal Street, and ultimately extending just beyond Washington Street. Consistent with the street numbering convention in Camden, it is North 28th Street above Federal and transitions to… Read more: 28th Street
  • 26th Street
    Twenty-Sixth Street, originally designated as Union Street and situated in what was once identified as the Pavonia area, now part of Cramer Hill, extends to East Camden, concluding at the intersection of Bank and Mickle Streets. Originally laid out prior to 1887, the street underwent a renaming process, occurring sometime after the 1899 annexation of… Read more: 26th Street
  • 25th Street
    Twenty-fifth Street, initially identified as Fulton Street, originates in what was originally known as the Pavonia neighborhood, now encompassed within Cramer Hill, and extends southward to Carman Street in East Camden. Its original designation underwent a change, occurring sometime after the annexation of Stockton Township to Camden in 1899. The street commences at the Delaware… Read more: 25th Street
  • Westfield Avenue
    Westfield Avenue, originally designated as the Westfield and Camden Turnpike, gained more widespread recognition as the Burlington Turnpike. Initially, it was one of the privately constructed and maintained thoroughfares. However, in response to public discontent over toll charges and the subpar condition of the roads, local government acquired Westfield Avenue in May of 1904, spending… Read more: Westfield Avenue
  • Beideman Avenue
    Beideman Avenue, situated in Camden’s Cramer Hill and East Camden sections, plays a significant role in the local geography. Positioned east of North 32nd Street, this avenue stretches from the Delaware River, spanning across Harrison Avenue, and continues south to Cleveland Avenue. After a brief interruption by the railroad tracks, it resumes on the other… Read more: Beideman Avenue
  • Benjamin M. Braker
    Benjamin M. Braker, a highly esteemed figure in South Jersey for over five decades, carved out a lasting legacy as both a journalist and a politician until his passing in December 1905. With close ties to George Lippard, the founder of the Brotherhood of the Union, and the renowned poet Walt Whitman, Braker played a… Read more: Benjamin M. Braker
  • George E. Brunner
    George Edward Brunner, born on January 12, 1896, in Newark, New Jersey, was a prominent American Democratic Party politician known for his extensive service as the Mayor of Camden, New Jersey, spanning from 1936 to 1959. Brunner’s roots trace back to Newark, where his parents, Eugene and Bertha (Zehnder) Brunner, both originally from Switzerland, raised… Read more: George E. Brunner
  • William J. Cleary
    William J. Cleary, born in Philadelphia on August 23, 1908, entered the service of the Camden Fire Department on September 29, 1940. Initially assigned to the role of a hoseman in Engine Company 3 at 1813 Broadway on October 15, 1940, Cleary’s dedication to his career faced a temporary interruption when he was drafted into… Read more: William J. Cleary
  • Raymond E. Banford
    Raymond E. Banford, born on January 3, 1918, in Camden, New Jersey, entered the world to William and Verna Banford, initially residing at 26 Marlton Avenue in 1918. The family relocated to 406 North 27th Street by 1924, with the 1930 Census revealing the presence of paternal grandmother Sarah Banford. William Banford, Raymond’s father, was… Read more: Raymond E. Banford
  • William H. Heiser
    William H. Heiser, born around 1884 in Virginia, entered matrimony with the former Carrie Van Saun circa 1905. During the 1920s and 1930s, the Heiser family resided at 633 Linden Street in Camden’s historic Second Ward. William Heiser pursued a career as an accountant with the Pennsylvania Railroad. The 1930 Census recorded William, Carrie, and… Read more: William H. Heiser