We are the Whale Port

Coopers, merchants, harpooners boarding houses keepers, and countless others helped shape our whaling port. Discover their roles and hear the stories behind their contributions.

👒 Meet Ruth & Abby, the 1850s Ladies! Step into the past with Ruth and Abby, two time-traveling neighbors from New Bedford’s whaling heyday. Thanks to a curious vault at 33 William Street, they visit the 21st century to share stories of everyday life in the 1850s. Through lively conversation and hands-on activities, they bring history to life—encouraging visitors to ask questions, interact, and discover New Bedford as it once was.

You may also like the following events from New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park:

• This Wednesday, 30th July, 10:30 am, 🌊 Whales: Giants of the Deep! 🐋 in New Bedford
• This Wednesday, 30th July, 02:30 pm, Ranger’s Choice Tour: 🌍 Discover New Bedford: A City of Adventure and Freedom! 🚢 in New Bedford
• This Thursday, 31st July, 02:30 pm, Walking Tour: Hidden Voices of the Whaling Era: Women at Sea in New Bedford