August 5, 2016 — The following was released by the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center:

New Bedford, Mass.— The New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is pleased to announce free admission for the remainder of the month of August.

The Center’s inaugural exhibit From Boat to Table presents all aspects of the industry from the time a keel is laid on a vessel to the time the catch is landed and brought to market. A variety of interactive components include a net mending activity, dress up area, and Eastern Rig style pilothouse designed and built by Fairhaven Shipyard with electronics provided by Furuno USA.  The Center worked with Chris Danemayer and Neal Mayer of Proun Design to take the exhibit from concept to fabrication. A team of volunteer carpenters have assembled many of the exhibit components.

Additional displays include a list of over 300 waterfront nicknames compiled by industry veterans Paul Swain and Jim Dwyer over the past 50 years; a knot tying activity station created by Paul Vieira; and photographs of vessels taken by the late John “Choo Choo” Ryan.

The Center’s gift shop is stocked with books by local authors, maritime music CD’s, nautical jewelry, and unique crafts, many created by fishermen and others in the industry.

The Fishing Heritage Center is located at 38 Bethel Street, in the heart of the City’s historic district, and is open Thursday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 5:00-9:00 p.m. on AHA nights (the second Thursday of each month). Free off street parking is available in the lot adjacent to the Center.  The facility is wheelchair accessible.