Welcome To The Bethel

Founded in 1830, the New Bedford Port Society maintains the historic Seamen’s Bethel and Mariner’s Home located on the top of Johnny Cake Hill in the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Serving the maritime community for over 175 years, the Seamens’ Bethel is also the site of dozens of weddings, christenings and memorial services each year.

The 1956 film adaptation of Herman Melville’s novel Moby-Dick was directed by John Huston with a screenplay by Ray Bradbury and the director. The film starred Gregory Peck as Captain Ahab and Orson Welles as Father Mapple.

News/Events

Fishermen’s Memorial Service

The Fishermen's Memorial Service has been moved to the Whaling Museum due to inclement weather predi...

Fishermen’s Memorial Service

Fishermen's Memorial service Monday, May 30. 2016 Fishermen's Wharf, New Bedford Ma. 10:00 AM ...

Welcome To The Bethel

Founded in 1830, the New Bedford Port Society maintains the historic Seamen's Bethel and Mariner's Home located on the top of Johnny Cake Hill in the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Serving the maritime community for over 175 years, the Seamens' ...

VISIT

The Seamen’s Bethel is currently closed for restoration . Watch for reopening date later in the summer. The Mariner’s Home is not open to the public. Admission is free; donations are welcome and appreciated. Free 2 hour parking is available on Johnny Cake...

OUR COMMUNITY

The Port Society is located in the heart of the New Bedford Whaling National Historic Park in downtown New Bedford. We look forward to your visit to our historic Seamen’s Bethel and hope that you take the time to visit some of the other great organizations an...