New Bedford Whaling Museum

Museum · New Bedford, Massachusetts

Illustration of New Bedford Whaling Museum

Overview

The New Bedford Whaling Museum tells the story of whaling and the city that was once its world capital, with whale skeletons and a half-size whaling ship model.

History

In the 1800s New Bedford was the richest whaling port in the world. Herman Melville sailed from the area in 1841, an experience behind "Moby-Dick". The museum opened in 1903.

Today

The museum is part of New Bedford's national historical park district and draws visitors year-round.

Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.