SS Columbia Project (SSCP) volunteers spread the word about our vision for SS Columbia at Sunday’s Hudson River Quadricentennial celebration. We were delighted to be part of this special event, which was held at the Lyndhurst Estate in Tarrytown, N.Y. We were especially excited to meet several people originally from Detroit who shared their memories of Columbia. (We plan to capture their recollections on our web site in the coming months. So stay tuned.)

More than 30 different historical, environmental and nature groups participated in River Fest. Visitors were able to take a walking tour of the Old Croton Aqueduct and learn more about environmental sustainability of the region. Children went on a scavenger hunt and learned to play old folk instruments. And everyone enjoyed the beautiful surroundings while listening to musical performances and sampling local cheese and wine from the farmers’ market.

Among the day’s presentations, SSCP President Richard Anderson gave a talk on the history of steamboat travel and the important role Columbia can play not only in reviving that grand tradition, but in revitalizing an appreciation of the Hudson River Valley. More than 2 million passengers annually traveled the Hudson during the steamboat’s heyday. As the automobile gained momentum, recreational travel on the river began to decline. The last great steamboat Alexander Hamilton was retired in 1971, although Hudson River dayliners continued operations until 1987. Sadly, none of these river icons have survived.

As the oldest surviving passenger steamer in the United States, a restored Columbia will carry on that grand tradition and help revitalize the Hudson River Valley as a historical, cultural and naturally beautiful destination. Columbia has another important connection to the river: She was designed and built by the same team that built the Hudson River steamboats — prominent architect and engineer Frank Kirby and noted artist and designer Louis O. Keil.

“The Hudson has become an unexplored avenue for tourism in recent years,” said Lyndhurst Director Jack Braunlein. “But it has tremendous potential to attract all kinds of visitors. Linking a great historic ship like Columbia with a great historic destination like Lyndhurst — it’s a natural fit.”

The Lyndhurst Estate, one of the country’s finest Gothic Revival mansions, certainly would be a prime destination for a restored Columbia one day. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which owns the estate, was also instrumental in helping SSCP acquire Columbia. Visitors interested in history and culture can tour the mansion and view a fine collection of decorative arts. Nature-enthusiasts can explore 67-acres of gardens, nature trails and the spectacular beauty of the Hudson. The estate also offers programs and events for adults and children throughout the year.

Thanks to Lyndhurst and Westchester Country for making River Fest possible. Thanks also to everyone who stopped by to learn more about SS Columbia. And welcome to our new friends and supporters. With your help, we can ensure the success of her new mission.