Name: Whales, Whaling, and Whalemen
Start: 2026-06-14T14:00:00-04:00
Location: 325 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT 06512-4317, United States

The global whale population was decimated by the 20th century due to commercial whaling. Thankfully, fragile whale populations are now actively recovering. Mystic Seaport Museum Education Specialist Anthony Riccio says understanding how we got to this point is important, especially for anyone with an interest or connection to the sea. Riccio will bring his whale knowledge and some hands-on whaling artifacts to the Pardee-Morris House during, “Whales, Whaling, and Whalemen,” on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 2 p.m. Weather updates are posted on Facebook, Instagram and www.newhavenmuseum.org.
During his presentation, Riccio will take an in-depth look at New England’s lost industry, the whaling trade. From colonial origins to economic heights in the 19th century, Riccio will highlight the mechanics of the whaling craft as well as the individuals who sustained the trade for over two centuries.
Riccio will untangle the nuances of whaling in the 19th century, as conducted by the crew of the Charles W. Morgan, a whaling vessel now located at Mystic Seaport Museum, in comparison to the heavily industrialized practices of 20th-century whalers. He hopes the public will feel a greater connection to the stories of the sailors themselves, noting, “Even though life at sea is very different from life ashore, I think we can find common ground.”
Riccio will also discuss direct and indirect connections to whaling in New Haven. He cites the Henry expedition, partially funded by Eli Whitney, which sailed in the 1820s to help open Pacific whaling grounds. He notes that the commercial products of whaling—oil and baleen—were even more prevalent than ships in 19th-century New Haven.
“Living in Connecticut, with its incredible array of cultural resources, has made it possible and easy for me to access stories and sources related to this topic,” Riccio says. “And my work as a museum professional at Mystic Seaport Museum has immersed me in our regional whaling history.”
Visitors are welcome to bring chairs and picnics and stay for the afternoon. Free tours of the historic house are available 12-4 p.m. New Haven Museum thanks community partner WSHU 91.1 FM for supporting the 2026 summer season.