The Gilbert Russell/Russell-Rotch Abbe House

1805. “Gilbert Russell House.” This palatial pink palace was originally a Federal style home, built by Russell, a New Bedford whaling merchant. A later owner, Dr. Edward Abbe, a noted surgeon, added the mansard roof and other non-Federal details. He owned the house from 1868 until his death in 1897. The house was later a convent, a school, and today is the home of the Women’s Center, a shelter and resource center for victims of domestic violence. No word on who painted it pink!⁣