New Bedford’s historic tour guide examines role New Bedford played in the American Civil War

“Against a backdrop of downtown New Bedford’s historic architecture tour guide Bruce Barnes examines the role that New Bedford played in the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865.

A story of valor and sacrifice, Mr. Barnes expounds the devastating impact that the Civil War had on the residents of New Bedford and the nation. New Bedford was a city of 24,000 and 10% of its population, more than 3,300, were sent to fight the war.

Of those, almost 260 died during the war. New Bedford citizens participated in every theater of the conflict, on land and the sea, from the First Battle of Bull Run to Appomattox Court House.

Other Society projects include the Historic Marker Program, New Bedford Re-Leaf, the production of self-guided Architectural Historic District Walking tour brochures (available online at the society’s website), Historical Cemetery Tours, Annual Holiday House Tours, and lectures throughout the year on historic preservation. To learn more about the society call 508.997.6425 or visit nbpreservationsociety.org.

All photos by the New Bedford Preservation Society: