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The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum

Step Into a Storied Legacy

Once home to three influential New Bedford families and their household staff, now a place of inspiration, learning, social connection, and celebration.

Welcome to The RJD

A National Historic Landmark

Built in 1834 for whaling merchant William Rotch Jr., this beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion and its surrounding gardens tell stories of New Bedford’s past as a global seaport, destination for freedom seekers, and rallying point for Abolitionists. Today, visitors can explore that past through period room displays and special exhibitions, or a stroll through the lush formal gardens.
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rotch jones duff house and garden museum
rotch jones duff house

Experience The RJD

House & Gardens

Explore a beautifully preserved whaling-era estate including an 1834 Greek Revival home and an acre of surrounding gardens.
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Programs

Engage with history through tours, concerts, storytelling, and more.
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Private Functions

Host your wedding, celebration, or special gathering amid the timeless beauty of the Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum.
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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.

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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.

Read Reviews

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.