These New Bedford Fishing Stories Are Heading Back Into the Spotlight

Two major exhibits unveiled over the past year are getting a new life at the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center at 38 Bethel Street. Those exhibits are "Hauling Back," a look at multi-generational fishing families in the Port of New Bedford, and "Casting a Wider Net," showcasing the many nationalities of people who work in the commercial fishing industry.

Joe Ritter, the Center's Director of Programs, stopped by Townsquare Sunday to share details about events happening in April and May at the FHC.

Visitors to the Center on April 9 (AHA! Night) will hear from photographer Phil Mello and videographer Markham Starr, two key contributors of the "Hauling Back" series of profiles on fishing families in New Bedford.

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Behind the Scenes of “Hauling Back”

"This is going to be a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the project as a whole," Ritter said. "Phil and Mark did the interviews and produced the photos and video used in the exhibits. They're going to be talking about what that process was like, and what they learned. We'll also be showing four of the short films they made as part of the project."

The program is free and runs from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

“Casting a Wider Net” Expands Across the City

Thanks to a state grant of nearly $20,000, the "Casting a Wider Net" exhibit is making its way to various venues in New Bedford. There will be an opening celebration at the New Bedford Community Health Center, located at 874 Purchase Street, on April 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

"This exhibit was up at the Center from the Fall of 2024 into 2025, and featured stories of Cuban, Puerto Rican, Vietnamese, Guatemalan, and Salvadoran residents who work in New Bedford's commercial fishing industry," Ritter said. "We decided to show it around the city, so we applied for a grant and made it happen."

There will be a net-mending display and delicious food. Admission is free.

Free April Vacation Program for Families

A history of New Bedford, from whaling days to the fishing port of today, is the theme of the Go Fish April Vacation Program at the FHC. The program is free and young people and family members are welcome. The program starts Tuesday, April 21, and runs through Friday of that week with sessions at 38 Bethel Street and at the National Park Visitors Center on William Street. Check out the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center website for more information.

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