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

  • 40th Street
    Fortieth Street extends from Remington Avenue to Chestnut Avenue in East Camden, traversing Westfield Avenue and High Street along its route.
  • 39th Street
    Thirty-Ninth Street extends from Jersey Avenue to Chestnut Avenue in East Camden, traversing Westfield Avenue and High Street along its route.
  • 37th Street
    Thirty-Seventh Street extends from the Delaware River to Chestnut Avenue in East Camden, traversing Westfield Avenue and High Street along its route.
  • 36th Street
    Thirty-Sixth Street extends from the Delaware River south, crossing River Road to Federal Street. Following the standard convention for numbered streets in Camden, it is North 36th Street above Federal, and South 36th Street below Federal. North 36th Street serves as Camden’s northern border with Pennsauken Township at various points along its length, leading to… Read more: 36th Street
  • 35th Street
    Thirty-Fifth Street extends from the Delaware River south to River Avenue. The street resumes east of the Pavonia railroad switching yard and continues to Fairfax Street. After crossing Westfield Avenue, 35th Street spans one block between Merriel and Rosedale Avenues. Following an interruption by railroad tracks (recently removed), 35th Street resumes on the southern side… Read more: 35th Street
  • 34th Street
    Thirty-Fourth Street extends from the Delaware River southward, crossing River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yard. It continues from Westfield Avenue to Federal Street, with a brief interruption by a rail line at Rosedale Avenue. Proceeding from Federal Street, it extends to Highland Avenue at the Pennsauken border. Following the standard naming convention for… Read more: 34th Street
  • 33rd Street
    Thirty-Third Street extends from the Delaware River southward, crossing River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yard. It continues from Westfield Avenue to Federal Street, with a brief interruption by a rail line at Rosedale Avenue. Proceeding from Federal Street, it extends to Highland Avenue at the Pennsauken border. Following the standard naming convention for… Read more: 33rd Street
  • 32nd Street
    Thirty-Second Street extends from the Delaware River southward, traversing River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yards, and dividing the Cramer Hill neighborhood. It resumes in East Camden at Lemuel Avenue, continuing to Federal Street with a brief interruption by the railroad tracks at Rosedale Avenue. From Federal Street, it proceeds to the city limits… Read more: 32nd Street
  • 31st Street
    Thirty-First Street spans from the Delaware River southward, crossing River Road to the Pavonia railroad switching yards. It resumes in East Camden at Pleasant Street and extends to Saunders Street. It then continues from Federal Street, heading south to Stevens Street, adjacent to Woodrow Wilson High School. Consistent with the naming convention of all numbered… Read more: 31st Street
  • 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