New Bedford, Massachusetts - The Walt Whitman documentary that includes segments filmed on location in the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, will air on PBS (WGBH/Channel 2) as part of its American Experience series on April 14, 2008 at 9:00p.m.  Last summer, HiddenHill Productions recreated early 19th Century New York on the streets of New Bedford to help illustrate the life of one of America’s most influential poets. 

Tourism and Marketing Director Ann Marie Lopes, who assisted the production company while in the New Bedford, said the production was drawn to the city’s historic charm, unique architecture and waterfront location.  “Production companies are rediscovering New Bedford as a visual place that can be included in a variety of films.  Location Scouts ranging from Paramount Pictures to documentary producers have toured the city.” said Lopes.  “Once they see New Bedford they are amazed and it’s not unusual for them to talk with us about multiple future projects.  And, we’ve found that production companies filming in Providence or Boston or other Massachusetts locations have been purchasing props in New Bedford and casting extras from the local area.” 

HiddenHill Production crews transformed the cobblestone streets of the downtown New Bedford Historic District into Broadway of New York City in the 1850s.  And, the south side of Hamilton Street between Water and Front Streets became New York’s South Street Seaport in the 1840s, a place that completely captivated Whitman when he traveled from Manhattan to Brooklyn for the first time.  Scenes in which the poet penned the famous “Leaves of Grass” were filmed in the attics of the Robeson House and the Southeastern Massachusetts Convention & Visitors Bureau, both located on Acushnet Avenue. 

When it came time to set design, extras and props, the production company didn’t have to look beyond New Bedford.  Set dressers purchased many props at local antique shops and, more than two-dozen extras from the New Bedford area appear in the film. 

See Walt Whitman in New Bedford in “The American Experience: Walt Whitman” on Monday, April 14, 2008 at 9:00 p.m. on WGBH/Channel 2.

Elizabeth Treadup (Mayor's Office)

View all articles by Elizabeth Treadup (Mayor's Office)