RJD History
The Families
Rotch Family
Quaker merchant William Rotch Jr. built the home in 1834, establishing it as a symbol of New Bedford’s prominence during the height of the whaling era.
Jones Family
Whaling agent Edward Coffin Jones purchased the home in 1851, and his daughter Amelia preserved it for more than 80 years, leaving a lasting cultural and artistic legacy.
Duff Family
In 1935, civic leader Mark M. Duff acquired the property, bringing formal elegance to the home and gardens during the final chapter of its private residency.