by Manager Port Society | Jan 14, 2026 | Blog, News
The New Bedford Port Society is proud to support the creation of a new public statue honoring Herman Melville, one of America’s most influential authors and a figure deeply connected to New Bedford’s maritime history. After reviewing more than 40 artist submissions...
by Manager Port Society | Oct 18, 2025 | Legends of the Hill, Voices of the Port
Herman Melville (1819–1891) Herman Melville, one of America’s greatest novelists, found inspiration for his most famous work, Moby-Dick, during his brief but formative time in New Bedford. Arriving in December 1840, the 21-year-old Melville attended a service at the...
by Manager Port Society | Oct 9, 2025 | Past Presidents
2023 – Present We’re proud to feature our current president, Phil Oliveira. Born and raised right in New Bedford and now a lifelong Southcoast resident with his wife Olivia and their two children, Phil brings both hometown pride and decades of leadership experience to...
by Manager Port Society | Oct 9, 2025 | Past Presidents
2012 – 2023 We’d like to look back with gratitude on the life and service of Fred Toomey, our 31st President of the Seamen’s Bethel. Fred Joined the Seamen’s Bethel’s board in 2001 and along with his close friend Bruce Oliveira, became part of the duo fondly known as...
by Manager Port Society | Oct 9, 2025 | Past Presidents
2009 – 2012 Every so often, the Seamen’s Bethel is guided by someone who doesn’t just serve- but stewards. Someone who understands that this chapel isn’t just a building on a hill, but a living witness to the tide and toil of New Bedford. From...
