1850 – 1853
James Arnold, being a local of New Bedford, understood what it took to be a successful businessman of his time and the benefits that could follow. Of course much occurred prior to his wealth however.
James was first born in Providence, Rhode Island on September 9th, 1781. Between his youth and adulthood, James traveled to New Bedford with his family and found himself working for William Rotch Jr.. At the time, James heard of William’s success as a businessman in the whaling industry and owning numerous properties in the area. With shared time, the two became business partners and eventually James even married William’s daughter Sarah Rotch in October of 1807.
Years later, James grew fond of the community and specifically it’s horticulture and agricultural aspects. His mansion was paired with a more than impressive garden and he even allowed the public to view it. It came to a point where the gentleman found such significance in horticulture and agriculture that with the help of others, founded the New Bedford Horticultural Society in 1847. Seeing such astounding results led James to becoming the second president of the New Bedford Port Society just three years later in 1850.
During his time as president, James sought to ensure that the Seamen’s Bethel was maintained for local families and whalemen. Thanks to his leadership, the church was able to provide comfort and support while he multitasked a business of his own. After his death in 1868, James Arnold ensured $100,000 of his own funds were to be used for agriculture and horticulture needs, eventually leading to the Arnold Arboretum being founded in Boston just four years later.
To say James Arnold contributed to New Bedford would be an understatement and his impact on both the city and the Seamen’s Bethel is still felt today.