Home - Waterfront Historic Area LeaguE (WHALE)

Preserving the Past

Restoring New Bedford's Architectural Treasures

Building the Future

Economic growth for local businesses

Fostering Community

Adapting historical buildings as neighborhood housing

Strengthening Arts & Culture

Restoring architectural gems as venues for arts and culture

Create a stronger, more prosperous city that understands its past and has hope for its future.

Follow the Progress!

Hillman Street Firehouse Blog

The restoration of the firehouse continues with some great milestones, including a new roof! Follow the blog to see the latest.

Join Us At the Spring Fling!

April 22 at Steeple Playhouse

Celebrate the season, community and preservation with this fun and festive event. $35 per person and all proceeds support our projects and programs. Click for more details.

Current Projects

Past Projects

Community Impact

Show Me The Money!

April 2, 2026

On March 31, WHALE held our fourth Historic Homeowner Workshop with a Zoom titled “Show Me The Money: Funding for Historic Homeowners”. The presentation ...

The Spring Fling!

March 23, 2026

Spring Fling is WHALE’s spring cocktail party at the historic Steeple Playhouse—an evening that brings the community together to celebrate preservation in a fun, ...

Join WHALE’s Board!

February 3, 2026

Join the WHALE Board of Directors WHALE is always seeking passionate, engaged individuals who care about historic preservation and the future of New Bedford’s historic ...

2026 Award Nomination Period Open!

February 3, 2026

WHALE Annual Preservation Awards Nomination Deadline: March 20 Do you know someone making a difference in historic preservation in Greater New Bedford? WHALE invites the ...

Invitation For Bids: Phase 2 of the CVA Cultural Center

November 14, 2025

Notice of Public Invitation to Bid: Phase 2 of the CVANB Cultural Center: The Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford, Inc. (CVANB) aims to strengthen ...

YOU Are The Preservationist! 2025 Annual Appeal

November 7, 2025

Through WHALE, you restore buildings, you create housing. You revitalize the places that make New Bedford unique. Your support brings history back to life and ...