By 1930, the scallop fishery in New Bedford experienced significant growth as scallop dredging became a major industry following the decline of whaling. This shift reflected changing economic conditions and the adaptation of local fishermen to new opportunities. The rise of the scallop industry contributed to the economic revitalization of New Bedford and reshaped its maritime identity.

The growth of the New Bedford scallop fishery in 1930 inspired transition narratives in Massachusetts maritime cultural poetry. Poets like Elizabeth Bishop captured the essence of coastal life, reflecting on the interplay between nature and human endeavor in their works.