Doesn’t the name Cramer Hill evoke images of rolling hills? Actually it is named after Alfred Cramer. He was a man who shaped this neighborhood in the late 19th century.
Cramer Hill is a neighborhood with a story. This story is about land and community. Alfred Cramer purchased farmland between Federal Street and the Delaware River. This was part of Stockton Township then. He divided the land into building lots. Cramer sold these lots on an installment basis. This made homeownership accessible to people of average means.
Before its merger with Camden in 1899 Cramer Hill had a vibrant political scene. It formed part of Stockton Township. After the merger Cramer Hill became Camden’s Eleventh Ward.
Let’s talk about some notable figures connected to Cramer Hill. Herman F. Niessner was born in Pennsylvania in 1891. His family moved to Cramer Hill in 1894. His father Frederick worked as a machinist. He bought a lot from Alfred Cramer. Then he built twin houses. Christian Samuel Stark Sr. was born in Philadelphia in 1857. He and his wife Eliza E. Leech raised their family here. James T. McGrory Jr. was born in 1927. In 1930, the McGrory family lived on Fairview Street.
Do you know about Bergen Avenue? This street in Cramer Hill runs north from Cleveland Avenue. It goes toward the Delaware River. It is likely named after Martin V. Bergen or Christopher A. Bergen. Both were prominent figures.
Cramer Hill is also home to A&A Soft Pretzel Baking Company. The Panara family established it in South Philadelphia in the 1920s. The company moved to Camden in 1976.
In the past, Cramer Hill had challenges. But it also had strong community bonds. One heartwarming story involves Marguerite Ferra’s mother. Years ago she babysat a young neighbor named Georgia. Even after moving away Georgia visited Marguerite’s mother. This shows the enduring friendships that can arise in Cramer Hill.
Cramer Hill has a rich history dating back to Camden’s early days. Camden was incorporated in 1828. The area now known as East Camden merged into Camden proper in 1899.
From farmland to a thriving community Cramer Hill’s story is one of transformation. It’s a story of people building lives and creating lasting connections. As we leave Cramer Hill remember its past. Think about its present. Consider its future.