New Bedford, Massachusetts sits just outside the Cape Cod Canal. This maritime town has a long history as a shipping port and the premier whaling center on the eastern seaboard of the United States. Visitors to New Bedford can take time to enjoy the many buildings still boasting 18th-century architecture and can learn about the whaling trade.
The New Bedford Whaling Museum, part of the National Park Service, provides an opportunity to learn about the whaling trade. Harpooning whales is currently illegal in most places, but in the early years of New Bedford’s existence, this industry provided most of the economic development in the town, once renowned for the wealth of its residents.
Candle makers use whale oil to make spermacetti candles, and New Bedford once served as home to many spermacetti candle makers. The Rodman Candleworks company was the first such business. Today, the Rodman building mostly houses offices but also has a restaurant open to the public. The building itself still stands in close to its original form.
No trip to a New England town would be complete without a trip to a Catholic Church. The church on Acushnet Avenue in New Bedford has an intricate sculpture in the sanctuary depicting St. Anthony in a scene with Jesus. Dedicated in 1912, this church has more than 5,500 interior lights and boasts New England’s tallest steeple.
The Mariner’s Home is a part of history coming to life. Though this home isn't open to the public, visitors can marvel at the building's exterior. The home has long served as a hotel for mariners passing through. New Bedford’s port has a hurricane barrier, making the city a frequent stay for mariners avoiding stormy sea weather. The Mariner’s Home still serves this purpose and the New Bedford Port Society maintains the home.
