Standing along New Bedford’s historic waterfront is a bronze tribute that tells a story familiar to generations of local families—a story of sacrifice, tradition, and the enduring bond between those who go to sea and those who wait for them to return.
The Fisherman Tribute Statue, created by New Bedford sculptor Erik Durant, depicts a fisherman kneeling beside his family. His young daughter clings tightly to his shirt while his son, holding a traditional crew cap, stands nearby. The fisherman’s wife looks on, capturing a quiet yet emotional family moment that resonates with anyone connected to the city’s fishing industry.
Every detail of the sculpture carries symbolic meaning. The father passing his crew cap to his son represents the continuation of New Bedford’s proud fishing tradition from one generation to the next. Meanwhile, the daughter’s embrace reflects the sadness and uncertainty that often accompany a loved one’s departure—or the relief and emotion of a long-awaited return.
That ambiguity is intentional.
Durant designed the sculpture so viewers could decide for themselves whether the fisherman is leaving for sea or returning home. “One of the things that I feel about the sculpture is that lots of different families are going to relate to this,” Durant said. “Either way, the scene is the same.”
The sculpture serves as a tribute not only to commercial fishermen but also to the families who share in the sacrifices of life on the water. Every fishing trip brings uncertainty, and for generations, New Bedford families have understood the emotional weight of saying goodbye and the joy of welcoming loved ones home safely.
The monument also reflects the city’s deep connection to the fishing industry. New Bedford has long been recognized as the No. 1 commercial fishing port in the United States by the value of its seafood landings, an achievement built on the hard work and dedication of local fishermen and their families.
Bringing the tribute to life was no small undertaking. It took more than a decade of fundraising efforts to raise the approximately $120,000 needed to commission and install the bronze sculpture. The years of community support underscore just how meaningful the project was to residents who wanted a permanent monument recognizing the people who have shaped New Bedford’s identity.
Today, the Fisherman Tribute Statue stands as more than a work of art. It is a lasting reminder of the courage of those who make their living at sea, the strength of the families who stand beside them, and the traditions that continue to define New Bedford as one of America’s great fishing communities.
