National Trust for Historic Preservation Selects New Bedford, MA, as One of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations for 2011

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has named New Bedford, MA, one of its 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations.  New Bedford, nominated by Waterfront Historic Area League, was selected for its seaport heritage, scenic beaches, abundant architectural and historical riches, diverse neighborhoods and a burgeoning arts community.

For 12 years the National Trust for Historic Preservation has annually selected communities across America that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from those found at the typical vacation destination. From dynamic downtowns and stunning architecture to cultural diversity and a commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization, the selected destinations boast a richness of character and exude an authentic sense of place.

“New Bedford is rightfully known as the 19th century whaling capital of the world, but maritime history is just the beginning of its appeal,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, in a prepared statement. “This place has deep roots in historic preservation, and its citizens have shown great respect for all of New Bedford’s cultural and historic elements, including its Civil War history, ethnic diversity, textile mills, and architectural heritage. This is absolutely a distinctive destination.”

The Trust said that New Bedford’s multi-faceted appeal is a credit to the tireless work of its local leaders (such as the Waterfront Historic Area League) who have helped rehabilitate more than forty structures in New Bedford. Noted highlights include its historic downtown (defined by cobblestone streets, period gas lamps, and authentic 19th and 20thcentury architecture), the city’s parks (including one designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and a Civil War-era fort), and its working waterfront.

Other highlights noted include:

• The Zeiterion Theatre - a completely renovated structure dating back to Vaudeville days and now home to the premiere performing arts center of the region.
• The North End Cultural District – a “hotbed” of small ethnic shops, offering such unique items as Azorean hand-stitched fabrics and Mexican pottery, as well as New Bedford’s most exotic cuisine.
• New Bedford Whaling National Historic Park – which includes the Whaling Museum with its 66-foot blue whale skeleton and world’s largest ship model, and partner sites that let one walk the deck of a whaling ship, tour a merchant’s home and visit a whaleman’s chapel.
• AHA! Nights (Art, History, Architecture) take place every second Thursday of the month, drawing more than 3,000 people downtown to celebrate New Bedford’s unique charms.
• Its 15 National Register Historic districts and six National Historic Landmarks, including the Nathan and Polly Johnson House which tells  the story of the Underground Railroad and Frederick Douglass in New Bedford.
• The annual Working Waterfront Festival, nationally recognized as one of the nation’s best cultural festivals, which draws thousands of visitors to the port each September to celebrate commercial fishing, America’s oldest industry.

From 15 February to 15 March, New Bedford will be participating in a public online voting contest to select the 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations Fan Favorite.

Background information:

National Trust for Historic Preservation