Camden Youth Stories

The filmmaker behind “Camden Youth Stories” was drawn to heritage education in schools, eventually focusing on the railway era. Her search was to uncover the perspective of young people during this pivotal time. Researching schools and nearby towns demolished by railways, she discovered records of the youth’s lifestyles—many lived in poverty and worked, while some attended school. However, clear accounts from them, or whether they were directly involved in railway work, remained elusive. Betsy’s mission was to give voice to these forgotten narratives, shedding light on the experiences of Camden’s youth during this transformative period.

“Camden Youth Stories” is a short film that contrasts kids from the past with today’s generation. Through a recent Camden Highline workshop in collaboration with Urban Learners, we uncover the forgotten lives of young people during the railway era, highlighting gaps in historical records. Today, these same streets are alive with the energy of Camden’s youth, actively shaping the future. Explore their journey, bridging the gap between generations and shedding light on the untold stories of Camden’s young residents.