Edited historical photo of Maria F. Soares, born in Cape Verde in 1849, ran the Whalemen’s Lodge boardinghouse in New Bedford for over 30 years. She was known for her strength, dignity, and for helping fellow Cape Verdeans settle into life in America.
NPS Photo/Paul Gomes
Maria F. Soares
A tall, imposing woman, Maria F. Soares was born in Cape Verde in 1849. She married the American consulate, a Boston Yankee. After giving birth to their son, she moved to the United States to join her husband. When he died a month later, the widowed Soares was rejected by her in-laws.
Soares moved instead to a Cape Verdean neighborhood in New Bedford. She opened a boardinghouse known as the Whalemen's Lodge at 386 South Water Street, which she operated for 30 years. While running her own business, she also helped introduce other Cape Verdeans to American customs.
She died in 1913.
Last updated: April 2, 2025
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Mailing Address:
33 William Street
New Bedford,
MA
02740
Phone:
508-996-4095
To reach the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, you can contact us by phone at (508) 996-4095. Whether you have questions about visiting the park, upcoming events, or general information, our team is available to assist you during our regular business hours. We look forward to helping you make the most of your visit!
