Celebrate New Bedford
Where Visionary Voices
bring See -Worthy to Light
The heart and soul of New Bedford is its people. As Massachusetts kicks off its celebration of The United States 250th anniversary, New Bedford reflects on the people who have shaped our history by championing freedom, steering innovative industry, creating a community for artists and entrepreneurs, and building a place where people from all over the globe have come to call home.
In New Bedford, our community is rich with cultural diversity, revolutionary moments, milestones in independence and freedom, and historical firsts in the nation. From lesser-known stories to the famed whaling “city that lit the world,” so much has been “see-worthy” in New Bedford throughout the years and we have compiled unique opportunities to experience them in the present. We hope you celebrate MA250 the New Bedford way in 2025!
Discover New Bedford’s Revolutionary Legacy
Revolutionary People and Moments
Stories of individuals who played a pivotal role in shaping history, from abolitionists to activists.
New Bedford’s Firsts
Groundbreaking achievements and historical firsts that set New Bedford apart.
Revolutionary Innovation
The industries and ideas that changed the course of history, from whaling to renewable energy.
Milestones in Independence & Freedom
Significant moments in the fight for independence, civil rights, and social justice.
Please accept our Visionary Voices campaign as an open dialogue, not a closed circuit. Lesser-told stories often come with a shortage of readily available and sometimes inaccurate and/or incomplete information. We encourage contacting us if you feel that any information presented here is incorrect or if you have any additional information to impart to ensure that we are accurately representing the legacies of the people we are showcasing. We hope that in the process of sharing these stories, we can all learn more about the diversity of voices that shape New Bedford’s culture.
See What’s Happening
Step into history, culture, and celebration with events that bring New Bedford’s legacy to life. and participate in events celebrating New Bedford’s role in the MA250 celebration.
🌊 Whales: Giants of the Deep! 🐋(Walking Tour)
🌊 Whales: Giants of the Deep! 🐋(Walking Tour)
Underground Railroad Walking Tour
Underground Railroad Walking Tour
Hidden Voices of the Whaling Era: Women at Sea (Walking Tour)
Hidden Voices of the Whaling Era: Women at Sea (Walking Tour)
The THUMP & SOUL SESSION
The THUMP & SOUL SESSION
2nd Thursday Blues
2nd Thursday Blues
Visionary Blog
Stay informed with the latest stories, insights, and historical explorations about New Bedford’s revolutionary past and future.
New Bedford Seaport Art Walk: Revolution/Evolution
The 2025 Seaport Art Walk ties into Massachusetts 250, highlighting New Bedford's Visionary Voices.
Madeira Wine and the American Revolution
Learn Madeira wine's role in the founding of the United States and sip from special casks at the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament in New Bedford each August.
The Legacy of Martha Bailey Briggs
Martha Bailey Briggs left a legacy of excellence and inclusion in the founding of modern day education departments.
Resources
A hub for recognizing the voices behind these stories and providing key links for deeper exploration of New Bedford’s history.
Experience the Stories in Motion
Dive into our video gallery, where history comes to life through engaging storytelling and visuals.
Learn More About Our History at MA250
Massachusetts is celebrating 250 years of innovation, history, and culture! Discover the stories, events, and milestones that have shaped our state at the MA250 Website