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New Bedford Whaling Museum and its collection

New Bedford Whaling Museum
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The New Bedford Whaling Museum (NBWM) is a museum dedicated to the whaling industry. It is located in the American city of New Bedford. The museum is part of the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, which is a national historic site specializing in whales. This is because the port of New Bedford was one of the most prominent whaling ports in the world during the 19th century.

Collection of the New Bedford Whaling Museum

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is managed by the "Old Dartmouth Historical Society" (ODHS). The museum boasts a collection of over 700,000 items, which includes more than 3,000 Scrimshaw and 2,500 logbooks. These items provide a detailed insight into the history and operations of the whaling industry.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Maritime Industrial heritage

#7 History & Anthropology in New Bedford #3 Nature & Natural History in New Bedford #3 Industrial & heritage museums in New Bedford #4 Maritime museums in New Bedford #32 Nature & Natural History in Massachusetts #30 Industrial & heritage museums in Massachusetts #22 Maritime museums in Massachusetts

#7 History & Anthropology in New Bedford #3 Nature & Natural History in New Bedford #3 Industrial & heritage museums in New Bedford #4 Maritime museums in New Bedford #32 Nature & Natural History in Massachusetts #30 Industrial & heritage museums in Massachusetts #22 Maritime museums in Massachusetts
New Bedford Whaling Museum
Johnny Cake Hill 18
MA 02740 New Bedford
Massachusetts

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Visitor information New Bedford Whaling Museum

Opening hours

Daily Highlights Tours - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM

Please check the website for details on opening hours.

Admission

65+US$21.00
AdultsUS$23.00
MembersFree
YouthUS$13.00

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible

Location & Map

Johnny Cake Hill 18, New Bedford

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in New Bedford Whaling Museum have been found.

New Bedford Whaling Museum Reviews

New Bedford Whaling Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The New Bedford Whaling Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of whaling and its impact on the region. Visitors appreciate the extensive collection of artifacts, including impressive whale skeletons and scrimshaw exhibits. The museum provides a balanced perspective on the whaling industry, addressing both its economic significance and the ethical concerns surrounding it.

    Many reviewers highlight the museum's informative displays and interactive elements, which cater to both adults and children. The half-scale model of a whaling ship is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, allowing visitors to get a sense of life aboard these vessels. The museum's connection to Herman Melville's "Moby-Dick" is also appreciated by literature enthusiasts.

    Some visitors note that the museum can be overwhelming due to its size and the amount of information presented. A few suggest allowing more time than initially planned to fully explore all exhibits. While most find the admission price reasonable for the experience offered, a small number of reviewers feel it's slightly high.

    The staff is generally praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, enhancing the overall experience. The museum's efforts to connect the whaling history to current conservation issues are also well-received.

    In summary, the New Bedford Whaling Museum provides a thorough and engaging exploration of whaling history, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in maritime history or New England's past.

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  • Aggregated rating

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