New Bedford Whaleman Statue Gets a New Look

The Whaleman's Statue in Downtown New Bedford has a bit of a different look.

A fence that was placed around the statue two years ago by former Mayor Scott Lang has been removed and replaced with azalea bushes just in time for the statue's upcoming 100th anniversary celebration. City preservationists along with members of the sculptors family have protested the wrought-iron fence and are pleased the fence has been removed.

According to published reports, Mayor Jon Mitchell says that the change was part of an effort to beautify the grounds around the library and city hall and partly in response to the family's wishes.