New Bedford Through the Lens - A Walk Through History

New Bedford Through the Lens portrays the history of New Bedford through the lens of a representative sampling of photographers from the 1850s to the late 20th century. The sub-titled A Walk Through History is an invitation to step back in time to stop and reflect on all the riches inherent in this great place, and to join me in this tribute to a city, its people and its heritage.

New Bedford, a city of industry, diversity, resiliency, and legacy, was also a renowned city of photography. This distinction remains as true today as it was from the beginning when photography was the next new thing and became a force in New Bedford's emerging arts scene. From the 1860s, photography reigned supreme. The most artistically enterprising, in search of a new craft, took to the camera. Photography studios sprouted on every busy street in bustling New Bedford.