The historic foundry responsible for casting the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia also crafted the bells for Our Lady of Good Voyage. Generous donations, including contributions from A. Piatt Andrew, Isabella Stewart Gardener, Henry Davis Sleeper, Mrs. Margaret Brady Farrell, and Father DeBem, helped raise $15,000 for the project. The carillon, consisting of 31 personalized bells, including a bass bell weighing approximately 2,240 pounds, was made at the Taylor foundry, renowned for its accurate tuning, making it the first of its kind in America.

Captain Joe Mesquita made a vow to publicly honor God after his schooner, the Mary P. Mesquita, was tragically struck by a Cunard steamer, resulting in the loss of only one crew member. In fulfillment of his promise, he commissioned a silver crown, which arrived from Portugal in 1902 and was blessed by Pope XIII in Rome. Today, the Crowning of the Imperator is celebrated with prayers, parades, and a strong sense of camaraderie, involving processions, beautifully dressed children carrying banners and miniature crowns, and a special blessing ceremony at Our Lady of Good Voyage, followed by a traditional banquet at the Portuguese Club.

Experience the enchanting scenes captured in dream-like footage, now preserved in the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress. Among them is the poignant arrival of Maria and Joe Alves, as they journey by boat from Gloucester, Massachusetts to Pico, Azores, retracing Maria's immigration at the age of 16.

Witness the resilience of the community as you explore images spanning from before the devastating parish fire of 1914 to the present, showcasing the remarkable rebuilding efforts. From the past to the present day, these images offer a visual journey that highlights the enduring spirit of the parish and its transformation over time. Tap the photo above to see the parish in days past to now.

Immerse yourself in the cultural traditions of Gloucester as it blesses its Portuguese fleet in 1953, captured in the lens of the renowned National Geographic photographer Luis Marden. Discover the captivating narrative of “Where New England Meets the Sea,” an exploration that beautifully showcases the intersection of New England's maritime heritage and the rich Portuguese influence in Gloucester.