Restore. Protect. Revitalize. Educate.
THE PLAN
Phase I: Restoration of the boat
The restoration of Columbia is among the most ambitious maritime preservation projects yet undertaken in the United States. In addition to the traditional parameters of a restoration, The SS Columbia Project’s goals includes the discreet enhancement of the vessel’s mechanical infrastructure using “green technologies“; incorporating apprenticeship programs into the restoration to ensure the passing on of traditional skills and crafts to a new generation; and the engagement of contemporary artists into the project.
Phase II: Operation of the boat
The vessel will serve as a mobile cultural events venue that will be shared by its waterfront communities. There will be programs in dance, theatre, literary readings, and performance. The grand salon of Columbia will come to serve as a floating “living room”, and the vessel will also provide unique programming to students relating to the history of the boat, the Industrial Revolution and its impacts on our environment and culture. A physical landmark will also allow us to draw more attention to Sarah Elizabeth Ray’s story and use the boat as an educational center for civil rights history in America.
Columbia will be an entirely unique waterfront destination– an authentic heritage vessel fitted out for a modern audience. The SS Columbia Project is dedicated to preserving, restoring and giving new life to the vessel. The guiding vision for the project is to maintain and use the steamboat as a vehicle for extensive arts, culture, and history programming. The boat’s role in US Civil Rights history provides a significant touchstone for this project and its future, which will have commitment to social justice, inclusion and equity embedded in all of its programming and operations. Columbia has many loyal fans, and it is our hope that she will eventually find a place in the hearts of Americans across the country and gain recognition as a key part of American history. Originally, she was based in Detroit, where we are grateful to have people who still love and support our project. Today, Columbia is docked in Buffalo, where we have been enormously bolstered by the community who see Columbia’s potential. We are equally thrilled to have supporters who envision Columbia docked on Manhattan’s shores. There are many possibilities for her future home and we look forward to her next chapter.
We see the future of Columbia as the People’s Boat: a maritime destination that will be able to serve up to 2,000 daily visitors. As a cultural flagship, Columbia will host live performances, exhibits and festivals. As an impressive venue, Columbia will be a one-of-a-kind event, dining, and meeting destination that draws new visitors from around the world.
With an eye towards assuring that the project is financially sustainable, The SS Columbia Project will partner with marine operators, event planners and caterers, restaurateurs to create and manage revenue-earning activities that compliment the onboard experiences.
The People’s Boat…
“I would turn SS Columbia into a school for the Arts. Middle School (by day), community (by night and weekend)... with high tech multimedia space for theater, dance and film.” -Holly Carter, Founder and Executive Director of BYkids
“I would want Columbia to house a performance space where all different types of art would be showcased and experienced. And maybe even a cafe/bar— that’d be nice.” Julius Powell, Actor.
“It would be spectacular indeed if the vessel could be made self-sustaining by means of electric propulsion generated from on board fuel cells. Perhaps the hydrogen could be generated via electrolysis back at the mooring and refilled overnight?” -Chris Coccarro, Senior Broadcast Producer at Merkley+Partners
