New Bedford Historical Society

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

💜 Honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day

NCNW Greater Boston Section honors the history, culture, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples. May we continue to learn, honor their voices, and work toward a future rooted in respect, equity, and understanding.

10/13/2026

Love The Ave Partners New Bedford Creative have officially opened applications for its 2027 grant cycle, calling on local artists, non-profits, community groups, and small businesses to submit bold ideas that will shape the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. Applications are open through Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM at newbedfordcreative.org. Pictured: The Envision Resilience Mural Project at Sawyer Street and Acushnet Avenue, North End, New Bedford.

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

10/12/2026

Parting Ways

10/11/2026

The story of the Douglass family is deeply connected to Massachusetts, and that legacy includes Lewis Henry Douglass, who was born in New Bedford on this day in 1840.

The eldest son of Frederick Douglass, Lewis Henry Douglass went on to serve in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment during the Civil War.

His service helped advance the fight for freedom and equality, building on the values of courage and perseverance that defined the Douglass family's legacy.

Today, New Bedford remains an important place for exploring that history. Learn more about the Douglass family at the Nathan and Polly Johnson House and Park, where visitors can discover the people and places that helped shape one of the most influential families in American history. https://nbhistoricalsociety.org/nathan-polly-johnson-house/



New Bedford Historical Society
Southeastern Massachusetts Visitor's Bureau

10/11/2026

At the urging of famed abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison, Frederick Douglass spoke at the anti -slavery convention held in the Nantucket Atheneum's Great Hall on August 11, 1841. It would be his first address to a mostly white audience. Imagine how he must have felt in the moment.

Follow in the footsteps of this famous orator by learning to give one of his speeches—there’s still time to apply for the 2026 Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest!

Learn more and register here: https://ow.ly/Owuu50ZUYvt

Image Credit: NPS