Cavalcade of Counties: Out of the Shadow

This article surveys Camden County's history from its earliest settlement through the mid-nineteenth century. Written by John T. Cunningham, it chronicles the county's development from Quaker settlement in the 1680s through colonial landmarks like Elizabeth Haddon's 1701 plantation and Betsy Griscom Ross's secret 1773 marriage before her flag-sewing fame. Revolutionary War details include the 1777 New Jersey Legislature meeting in Haddonfield's Indian King Tavern. Post-war accounts cover Philadelphia's influence, Dolly Madison's Camden visits, stage coach stops, the 1844 separation from Gloucester County, and industrial growth: Esterbrook steel pens (1858), Campbell soup company (1869), and glass manufacturing. A notable 1856 ferry disaster and Underground Railroad activity receive mention. The article emphasizes Camden's economic emergence as a manufacturing center while remaining shadowed by Philadelphia's dominance.