LISTEN

The New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center recently announced its plans to lease space at 38 Bethel Street, starting April 1.

Located in the heart of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the 3000 square foot space will accommodate changing exhibits, public programs, school groups, archives, and community gatherings. Exhibits are under development with a public opening planned for late June.

Members of the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center board pose in front of their new space.“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,” said executive director Laura Orleans.

During 2016, the Center will continue to present Dock-u-mentaries, its monthly film/speaker series and Something Fishy, its free summer camp program, in collaboration with the National Park and Whaling History Alliance.

The center is also working in collaboration with UMass Dartmouth, UMass Boston, and the New Bedford Public Library on a year-long initiative to create a digital archive of fishing community history.

To learn more, watch the center's Facebook page.

Have you listened to this article via the audio player above?

If so, send us your feedback around what we can do to improve this feature or further develop it. If not, check it out and let us know what you think via email or on social media.

Samuel Hill is the former associate editor for National Fisherman. He is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine where he got his start in journalism at the campus’ newspaper, the Free Press. He has also written for the Bangor Daily News, the Outline, Motherboard and other publications about technology and culture.

Join the Conversation