Rodman Candleworks

Rodman Candleworks was built around 1815 and was erected for the purpose of producing highly valuable spermecetti candles. The production of these candles was a well-guarded secret and required intense laboring. Prior to the use of petroleum, however, spermaceti provided the best product on the market, with its long burn time, bright light, and hard form.

Information courtesy New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park; A Picture History of New Bedford, Volume 1