34 South Sixth Street, David Coffin House, 1934

34 South Sixth Street, David Coffin House, 1934, Federal and Greek Revival Styles

This home was one of several large and imposing homes built by successful merchants after the installation of streetlights and paving stones on this street, creating a more cosmopolitan atmosphere in the city. Coffin's parents had come to New Bedford from Nantucket and it may be no coincidence that this home is similar to residences built by his Nantucket cousins between 1837 and 1839, however, it is unknown whether or not David Coffin and his cousins actually shared any communication. The Greek Revival style portico is combined with Federal period details, such as the stepped parapet gable ends connecting to bridged chimneys. In later years, the rear veranda was enclosed, and the window shutters and a rooftop balustrade were removed. David Coffin owned six whaling vessels in the mid-1830s, "Cherokee," "Elizabeth," "Fenelon," "Leader," “Marcella,” and the “Nile.” David Coffin also owned a candleworks and tryhouse on Water Street in New Bedford. 'Coffin's Wharf,' at the foot of Walnut Street, was once one of the busy whaling wharves during the heyday of the whale fishery. William Coffin, nephew of David Coffin, resided in the home most of his life and was an active abolitionist. William was a supporter of the abolitionist newspaper, The Liberator, and of the Boston Vigilance committee, which assisted fugitive slaves.