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.

Historic Homeowner Series

Winter Programs

Our series continues with three upcoming opportunities to learn, connect and ask questions. Click here for dates and details!

Follow Along the Project

Hillman Street Firehouse

See the progress being made at 109 Hillman Street and the conversion of this historic firehouse and civil defense headquarters into 8 units of housing.

Current Projects

Past Projects

Community Impact

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 ...

The Firehouse – Now Accepting Rental Applications!

October 29, 2025

The Firehouse in New Bedford (109 Hillman Street) is now accepting rental applications for four 1BR units and four 2BR units. AVAILABLE PARTICULARS AMI RENT ...

It’s Back! Historic Homeowner Workshop Series

October 24, 2025

WHALE is excited to bring back our Historic Homeowner Workshop Series on November 19 with a conversation about insurance for historic and older homeowners. Insurance ...