Whaling Walking Tour: A New Life In New Bedford

Explore the stories of people who arrived in New Bedford during the height of the whaling industry, each bringing their own experiences, skills, and aspirations. Discover how New Bedford’s maritime economy and growing industries connected the city to people and places around the world, shaping opportunities that drew whalemen, merchants, craftspeople, immigrant communities, and freedom seekers seeking work, opportunity, and a new beginning. Learn how whaling, trade, and industrial growth helped shape New Bedford and influenced the people who built lives here during a period of profound change.