DUE TO THE OUTCOME OF THE TOWN OF FAIRHAVEN GENERAL ELECTION, THE OFFICE OF TOURISM, COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (DISCOVER FAIRHAVEN) HAS BEEN ELIMINATED
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2026
THIS WEBSITE WILL NO LONGER MAINTAINED.
We thank the community, volunteers, businesses, and partners for more than 30 years of support and service.
A SMALL TOWN WITH A BIG HISTORY
Nestled along the shores of Buzzards Bay, Fairhaven, Massachusetts, is a town rich in history, seafaring tradition, and architectural beauty. First settled by the Pilgrims and later home to whaling captains, shipbuilders, and industrial magnates, Fairhaven played a vital role in America's maritime and economic development. From the legendary solo voyage of Joshua Slocum to the philanthropic legacy of Henry H. Rogers, the town’s past is filled with remarkable stories and influential figures. Today, Fairhaven preserves its heritage through historic buildings, scenic waterfronts, and a deep appreciation for its vibrant past.
NOTABLE RESIDENTS
The last surviving male Pilgrim of the Mayflower was Fairhaven’s first and only Pilgrim settler, leaving a lasting legacy as the town’s founding father.
The Delano family, whose lineage includes President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, played a vital role in Fairhaven’s rich maritime history, leaving behind a legacy of seafaring ambition and influence.
A Fairhaven-born sea captain turned reformer who co-founded the Seventh-day Adventist Church and championed a movement that spread across the globe.
A fearless whaling captain’s wife who defied convention by going to sea and skillfully navigating a ship through the treacherous waters of the Pacific.
A shipwrecked Japanese fisherman rescued by a Fairhaven whaling captain who became the first Japanese person to live in America, playing a key role in opening Japan to the West.
An architect and engineer who revolutionized city skylines as the father of the modern skyscraper.
A Fairhaven-born oil magnate and philanthropist who rose to power with Standard Oil and gave back to his hometown by funding schools, libraries, and iconic buildings.
A fearless mariner who made history as the first person to sail solo around the world, proving that one man and a sturdy boat could conquer the sea.
A Fairhaven-born romanticist artist and photographer who captivated the world with his stunning Arctic landscapes, earning the patronage of Queen Victoria and leaving a legacy in collections like the Royal Collection Trust.
A renowned conductor who helped shape the future of American orchestral music, serving as the founding conductor of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
A Fairhaven High School graduate and mother of Hollywood legends Peter and Jane Fonda.
A distinguished architect renowned for his innovative designs, including the creation of iconic buildings that helped shape the architectural landscape of New England.
A Fairhaven native who became the legendary voice of the New England Patriots, captivating fans for decades with his iconic play-by-play commentary.
A master mentalist who has amazed audiences worldwide with his mind-reading abilities, inspiring the hit TV show The Mentalist.
An internationally acclaimed artist renowned for his thought-provoking installations that blend art, science, and history to challenge the way we see the natural world.
RESOURCES
Explore Fairhaven’s rich history through the following resources:
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History Videos: Watch a collection of videos and tours produced by the Office of Tourism.
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"Long Ago & Close By": Stories about the history of Fairhaven written by Chris Richard, former Fairhaven Director of Tourism (1996 - 2024).
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Historical Sources: View a comprehensive list of sources used by the Office of Tourism in creating walking tours, printed brochures, and web content.
For general questions related to town history beyond the tours, programs, brochures, or web content, please refer to the organizations below:
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Fairhaven Historical Commission – The official government body overseeing the town’s historical assets, including the historical house plaque program.
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Millicent Library Archives Department – An excellent starting point for local historical research.
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Fairhaven Historical Society – Dedicated to preserving Fairhaven’s historical heritage by protecting historic structures, promoting local history and culture, and collecting historical documents and artifacts. Their museum is located on the second floor of the Academy Building.
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Fairhaven High School Alumni Association – Oversees the care of Fairhaven High School’s historic building, while connecting alumni.