New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center

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New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center Dedicated to telling the story of the fishing industry past, present, and future.

The Fishing Heritage Center is dedicated to telling the story of the fishing industry past, present, and future through exhibits, programs, and archives. The Center is located at 38 Bethel Street in the heart of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. The 3000 square foot, handicap accessible space accommodates changing exhibits, public programs, school groups, archives, and community gatherings.

“The commercial fishing community deserves a place to preserve and present its stories and artifacts, share its skills and knowledge, and educate the public about its rich traditions, heritage, and contemporary existence. We are excited to provide that opportunity.” Executive Director, Laura Orleans.

Good morning! The next 2 months during the evening of AHA! Night, we are focused on not only the holiday, but the commun...
10/24/2026

Good morning!

The next 2 months during the evening of AHA! Night, we are focused on not only the holiday, but the community as well!

Join us for MADE IN NB on Thursday November 12th, 5p to 8p. You'll be able to enjoy a small curated artisan showcase for your holiday shopping.

If you are a vendor and want to hop in on the next 2 AHA! evenings, send an email to:

[email protected]

Please include your name, business name, and photos of what you plan on selling.

Thank YOU all for being part of our community!!

Happening tomorrow from 12 - 4! The SHOP SMALL CRAWL! And, of course we are participating ! Lets get a jump start on th...
10/23/2026

Happening tomorrow from 12 - 4!
The SHOP SMALL CRAWL! And, of course we are participating !

Lets get a jump start on the holiday gift giving season. We have many options to choose from, including passes for visiting!

Give the gift of experiences this holiday season. Visit the center and purchase a "visit 3" pass! Get access to three locations !!!
>>>> New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center
>>>> New Bedford Art Museum
>>>> The Rotch-Jones Dutch House and Garden

Three stops. One price. Great choice for a stocking stuffer 😎👌

Then, pop em in these cute little cards, blank inside so you can provide your own flair with words 😊

Happy EARLY Holiday! See you at the Center!!!

Friday 10a to 4pm
Saturday 10am to 4pm

Lets get ready for the holiday shopping! Swimming in are these adorable iron on patches crafted by Salmon Seas! Each one...
10/22/2026

Lets get ready for the holiday shopping! Swimming in are these adorable iron on patches crafted by Salmon Seas! Each one super unique and cute! And, what better way to grab one than this weekend during the shop small crawl!

Kicking off this weekend, you can receive 10% off and free admission!

See you soon!

Thursday 10a to 4p

Please note that the Center will be closed to the public tomorrow morning (Wednesday, October 21) for a private meeting....
10/20/2026

Please note that the Center will be closed to the public tomorrow morning (Wednesday, October 21) for a private meeting. We will reopen to the public at 1:00pm.

What's your favorite exhibit within our walls!? Mine may be the discussion around safety suits. Its always fascinating t...
10/17/2026

What's your favorite exhibit within our walls!?

Mine may be the discussion around safety suits. Its always fascinating to learn about the measures that companies and vessels are taking to ensure the safety of fishermen!

Peak your interests here in the heart of downtown ♥️
Learn about the history of our commercial fishing industry. Learn about the struggles and the triumph that this industry has been through.

You'll be so happy that you did!

Saturday hours - 10a to 4p

In 1970, off the shore of Martha’s Vineyard, Lithuanian radio operator Simas Kudirka jumped from a Soviet ship onto a US...
10/16/2026

In 1970, off the shore of Martha’s Vineyard, Lithuanian radio operator Simas Kudirka jumped from a Soviet ship onto a US Coast Guard vessel in a frantic bid for freedom. Denied asylum by the American crew, Simas was sentenced to a Soviet labor camp for treason, sparking an international outcry. His dramatic case set off a chaotic series of events leading to one of the biggest political muddles during the Cold War.

Join FHC and New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park tonightat 7:00pm for our free screening the 2020 documentary film "The Jump" which recount's Simas' story. The screening will take place at the National Park's auditorium at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. Doors open at 6:30pm.

Learn more and register for free on our website: https://fishingheritagecenter.org/dock-u-mentary-the-jump/

Anchors away on a rainy day! Don't let that rain deter you, though 😎The center is open today from 10a to 4p! There is so...
10/16/2026

Anchors away on a rainy day!

Don't let that rain deter you, though 😎

The center is open today from 10a to 4p! There is so much happening behind the scenes. And, its the perfect weather to start that holiday shopping.

I know, I know.... "it's only October....."

Just blink. It'll be here tomorrow ...

Support small. Support local. Support your community.
The gift shop is a huge collaborative effort! We've been using up lots of efforts to bring a very wide variety of items that are perfect for the gift giving season. Unique finds from the local artisans have been hitting the shelves almost weekly! When you support the gift shop, you support our collaborations 🫶

Thank YOU to our small business friends who continue to go all of the extra lengths to help this effort 👌

You matter and we appreciate you! Wholeheartedly.

📷: artist Sheryl LeBlanc

Address

38 Bethel Street
New Bedford, MA
02740

Opening Hours

Wednesday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm
Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm
Sunday 1pm - 4pm

Telephone

+15089938894

Website

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