1857 – 1858
1865 – 1866
Joseph was born in New Bedford on January 9th in 1796 to his parents Allerton Delano and Sarah C. Alvey. The family took advantage of the coast and worked alongside fellow whalers and fishermen for decades. Eventually when Joseph became of age, the young man sought work on the open seas and gained experience that would later contribute to shaping history.
In 1840, Joseph became captain of the Patrick Henry ship that was initially used for transporting general cargo. After so many years Captain Delano, hired by Grinnell’s shipping company, sailed the Patrick Henry to Ireland with his brother as first mate to transport necessary provisions during the country’s terrible famine. Two trips were initially charted across the Atlantic Ocean, making Captain Delano and his crew rather popular both in New York and in Ireland. Eventually their voyages led to the captain becoming well renowned and earning him the title of president of the New Bedford Port Society soon after.
As his time as president, Captain Delano ensured the Seamen’s Bethel’s maintenance was upkept for the community and any who wished to find comfort. To this day the New Bedford Port Society values and appreciates his contributions along with the many others who support our historic church.