New Bedford is a city in Bristol County , Massachusetts , United States . As of the 2010 census , the city had a total population of 95,072, making it the sixth-largest city in Massachusetts. New Bedford is nicknamed "The Whaling City" because during the 19th century, the city was one of the most important, if not the most important, whaling ports in the world, along with Nantucket, Massachusetts and New London, Connecticut . The city, along with Fall River and Taunton , make up the three largest cities in the South Coast region of Massachusetts. The Greater Providence-Fall River-New Bedford area is home to the largest Portuguese-American community in the United States . History Early history Before the 17th century, the Wampanoag , who had settlements throughout southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island, including Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket , were the only inhabitants of the lands along the Acushnet River . Their population is believed to have been about 12,000. While exploring New England , Barthol Express yourself. Organize your knowledge. Expand your mind. Discover the world. Revolvy connects you with interesting topics, lists and quizzes. Choose from hundreds of quizzes that test your knowledge. Search through millions of topics. Create a your personalized library of topics, and discover topics that others are following.