New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
The Legacy of James E. Reed
James E Reed left an abundance of photos behind capturing the city and region for three decades giving us a window to the past. So many photos that the N.B. Whaling Museum had an exhibition in 1991: James E. Reed: Pioneer Black Photographer and there was even an attempt to establish a James E. Reed Day at one time.
I hoped you enjoyed this little article about a figure that gave so much to the city, but has unfortunately been lost to time for the most part. There are local historians that I bump into at various venues throughout the city that not only know about these historical figures, but know far more than I. Feedback – positive and negative – criticism, suggestions and corrections are always appreciated. I simply abhor a one way conversation.
Special thanks, as always to N.B. Whaling Museum and Spinner Publications, without whom none of my articles could be done without. I simply wouldn’t have the information, and the lack of photos would force everyone to read my text. I need those photos to distract from the horrible writing! I can’t say enough about the generosity of the these two organizations in general and too many individuals to name. Please patronize them both! Enjoy the scroll gallery compliments of these two organizations. There are not only images of James E. Reed, but include much of his work. There is a wealth of more images on both their websites. Enjoy!
Pretty cool stuff…every time I hear these stories of buildings getting torn down for things like street widening saddens me…I wish NB still had all its original structures instead of these one story ugly infills throughout the city…
Hi Freddie! It is depressing to think of how much history we’ve lost and how many buildings with magnificent architecture with craftsmanship that we don’t see as much any more. I imagine decisions like widening Purchase Street are tough decisions that city officials have to make to maintain economic progress. I know I wouldn’t want to have to make a decision like that.
Fortunately, New Bedford more so than many other cities has retained much. From the “cobblestone” streets, churches, and street lights, to its whaling heritage, trolleys, and monuments.
Often when I am downtown (especially after some libations) at night I like to pretend that I am in the mid 19th century, on leave between whaling voyages and spending my hard earned money before it’s back to the grind. It’s easy to do with the surroundings that hearken back to that era.
Though, just once….I’d like to hear the clickety-clack of a horse and carriage.
Thanks for taking the time to read the article and sharing feedback.
Best,
-Joe
HA! I do the same when I’m out an about…I also do the same when I’m out sailing…Often think about the number of experiences and people that came through these waters while I’m out there…
Great article. So good that you are looking at the lesser known, but oh so important people that made New Bedford what it was and is. Thanks
Thanks for reading the article and taking the time to give feedback! I couldn’t agree more about given the limelight to the people who are commonly passed by for major figures.
I Love your mind for real !!!!!
Love your historical articles. Is there any indication that Reed St was named for Me. Reed?