1859 – 1864
Thomas grew up along the shores of the east coast, experiencing the mariner’s life firsthand. He attended the Seamen’s Bethel with his family for numerous years, even becoming one of the many popular board members who sought to utilize our church for the community’s greater good. When Joseph Delano stepped down in 1858, many of the Seamen’s Bethel’s attendees and board members looked to Thomas as a candidate. His understanding of the organization’s responsibilities paired with listening to others only solidified his chances and soon after, he humbly accepted the position.
During his time leading the New Bedford Port Society, Thomas faced difficult years as president. The Civil War was causing extensive panic throughout the northern and southern states and ensuring our church remained open was quite the daunting task. With limited funds and resources however, the New Bedford Port Society kept its doors open to all thanks to Thomas and his team. To this day, the Seamen’s Bethel remains to be a place of comfort for our community and beyond, a guarantee Thomas Green and our other presidents have always kept.