Rotch Jones Duff House & Garden Museum
Step Into a Storied Legacy
Discover the lives, legacies, and landscapes of three influential families in a landmark home that tells the story of New Bedford’s past.
Welcome to RJD
A Landmark of History, Architecture, and Natural Beauty
Preserving New Bedford’s past while inspiring generations through education, exploration, and community engagement.
The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum is more than a historic home—it’s a living legacy. Built in 1834 for whaling merchant William Rotch Jr., this beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion and its surrounding gardens tell the story of New Bedford’s rise as a global seaport. Today, visitors can step inside the home’s period rooms, stroll through its lush formal gardens, and engage with exhibits, events, and programs that bring history to life. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a lifelong learner, or a local neighbor, the RJD invites you to experience the richness of the past in a setting designed to inspire.
Experience the RJD
A preserved whaling-era mansion. A full city block of historic gardens. A timeless setting for life’s most meaningful moments.
House & Gardens
Step inside a beautifully preserved 1834 whaling-era mansion and explore the lives of the families who shaped New Bedford’s past.
Programs
Rentals
Take a closer look at the rich history, architecture, and gardens that make the Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum a New Bedford treasure.
From its roots in the whaling industry to its role as a cultural and educational landmark today, the RJD is more than a historic house—it’s a living piece of history. Watch our video to step inside the home, stroll through the gardens, and discover how this unique museum continues to inspire and connect generations.
Watch Intro Video
What Our Visitors Are Saying
From casual garden strolls to unforgettable weddings, school field trips to guided tours—every visit to the RJD is a personal journey through history, beauty, and connection.
Karen Brizida
Happy Bride
Had our ceremony last week and it was beautiful even with all the rain. We had the ceremony under the tent and was able to take pictures in the museum. Claudio was wonderful to work with. His communication throughout the process was on point. Beautiful grounds to have a wedding ceremony or just to take wedding pictures
Abigail Epplett
Google Review
The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum is a fun and relaxing way to tour a historic home and enjoy beautiful flowers. The staff was cheerful and friendly. I appreciated that different rooms in the house were specific to the three families who live their, allow me to understand three separate time periods in New Bedford history.
Amy Monteiro
Google Review
Very neat to visit. I loved it. I liked how they have a print out for the self guided tour. It’s a packet of info and their areas are numbered. The rose garden is spectacular! Over 300 rose bushes were planted in 2017. So much history in our own backyard.
Tracy Cameron
Happy Bride
We had our wedding ceremony in the garden on July 16th and it was the most beautiful day! The grounds are absolutely stunning and we are so happy with how everything went. Claudio made this day so very special for us.