Hudson River Maritime Museum

History of Hudson River Maritime Museum

Establishment

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is a marina located in Connelly, New York. The museum was established in 1980 by a group of local residents who were passionate about preserving the history of the Hudson River. They wanted to create a space where people could learn about the river's rich maritime history and the role it played in the development of the region.

The museum started as a small collection of artifacts and exhibits housed in a single building. Over time, it grew in size and scope, thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers and staff members.

Evolution Over the Years

Today, the Hudson River Maritime Museum is a thriving institution that attracts visitors from all over the world. It features a wide range of exhibits, including historic boats, engines, and other maritime artifacts. The museum also offers educational programs, boat-building workshops, and other events throughout the year.

Over the years, the museum has undergone significant changes and improvements. In 1998, it acquired the Rondout Lighthouse, which has become a popular attraction for visitors. In 2000, the museum opened a new building to house its growing collection of exhibits and artifacts. And in 2014, it completed a major renovation of its waterfront campus, adding new docks, a boat launch, and other amenities.

Despite these changes, the Hudson River Maritime Museum remains committed to its mission of preserving the history of the Hudson River and educating the public about its importance. Through its exhibits, programs, and events, the museum continues to inspire visitors of all ages to explore the rich maritime heritage of the region.

Location and Accessibility

Geographical Location

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is located in Connelly, New York, situated on the banks of the Hudson River. The museum is positioned in the heart of the Hudson River Valley, a region known for its natural beauty and rich history. Connelly is a small hamlet in Ulster County, New York, and is approximately 90 miles north of New York City.

Transportation

The museum is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on site. Visitors can take the New York State Thruway (I-87) to Exit 19 (Kingston). From there, follow Route 209 south for approximately 3 miles, then turn left onto Broadway (Route 9W). The museum is located about half a mile down Broadway on the right-hand side.

Directions

For those traveling by public transportation, the nearest train station is the Rhinecliff-Kingston Amtrak station, located about 10 miles from the museum. From there, visitors can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the museum. The nearest airport is Stewart International Airport, located about 30 miles from the museum.

In summary, the Hudson River Maritime Museum is conveniently located in Connelly, New York, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. With its stunning location on the banks of the Hudson River and rich history, it's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in maritime culture and history.

Exhibitions and Collections

Permanent Exhibits

The Hudson River Maritime Museum in Connelly, New York, is home to a variety of permanent exhibits that showcase the rich history of the Hudson River and its impact on the region. Visitors can explore exhibits that cover a range of topics, including the history of the steamboat industry, the region's maritime industries, and the ecology of the Hudson River.

One of the most popular exhibits is the "Working Waterfront" exhibit, which features a collection of historic boats and artifacts that highlight the role of the Hudson River in the transportation of goods and people. The exhibit includes a replica of a 19th-century tugboat, a steam-powered launch, and a variety of other vessels that were once used on the river.

Another highlight of the museum's permanent exhibits is the "Riverport Wooden Boat School." This exhibit features a collection of wooden boats that were built by students at the museum's boat-building school. Visitors can learn about the traditional techniques used to build these boats and even take a workshop to learn how to build their own wooden boat.

Temporary Exhibits

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Hudson River Maritime Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits cover a range of topics, from the history of the region's lighthouses to the ecology of the Hudson River.

One recent temporary exhibit was "The Art of the Hudson River School," which showcased the work of artists who were inspired by the beauty of the Hudson River and its surroundings. The exhibit featured paintings, drawings, and other works of art from the 19th century to the present day.

Another recent exhibit was "The River That Flows Both Ways," which explored the ecology of the Hudson River and the impact of human activity on the river's ecosystem. The exhibit featured interactive displays and educational materials that helped visitors learn about the river's complex ecosystem and the steps being taken to protect it.

Overall, the Hudson River Maritime Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and ecology of the Hudson River. With its diverse collection of permanent and temporary exhibits, the museum offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.

Educational Programs and Events

Workshops and Lectures

The Hudson River Maritime Museum offers a variety of educational programs throughout the year, including workshops and lectures. These programs cover a wide range of topics related to the history and culture of the Hudson River, as well as maritime skills and techniques.

The museum's workshops provide hands-on learning opportunities for participants of all ages. Topics include boatbuilding, navigation, and traditional maritime crafts. Workshops are taught by experienced instructors and are designed to be accessible to beginners as well as more advanced learners.

In addition to workshops, the museum also hosts a series of lectures throughout the year. These lectures feature guest speakers who are experts in their fields and cover a range of topics related to the Hudson River and its history. Past topics have included the ecology of the river, the history of river transportation, and the role of the Hudson River in the American Revolution.

Annual Events

The Hudson River Maritime Museum also hosts several annual events that are open to the public. These events provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about the history and culture of the Hudson River, as well as to enjoy hands-on activities and demonstrations.

One of the museum's most popular events is the Wooden Boat Show, which takes place each summer. This event features a variety of wooden boats on display, as well as demonstrations of traditional boatbuilding techniques. Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities such as knot-tying and boatbuilding.

Another annual event is the Riverport Festival, which celebrates the history and culture of the Hudson River. This event features live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. Visitors can learn about the river's history and ecology, as well as participate in hands-on activities such as boat rides and fishing demonstrations.

Overall, the Hudson River Maritime Museum's educational programs and events provide opportunities for visitors to learn about the history and culture of the Hudson River in a hands-on, engaging way.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is open daily from 11am to 5pm. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Admission Fees

Admission to the Hudson River Maritime Museum is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children aged 5-18. Children under 5 are admitted free of charge. Group discounts are available for groups of 10 or more people.

The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs that showcase the rich history of the Hudson River and the maritime industry. Visitors can explore the museum's collection of historic boats, including the Rondout Lighthouse and the tugboat Mathilda. The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the river's ecology and the various industries that have relied on the Hudson over the years.

In addition to its exhibits, the Hudson River Maritime Museum offers a variety of educational programs and events, including boat-building workshops, river ecology tours, and lectures on the history of the Hudson River. The museum also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including boat shows, concerts, and festivals.

Overall, the Hudson River Maritime Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and ecology of the Hudson River. With its engaging exhibits, educational programs, and beautiful waterfront location, the museum offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.

Community Involvement

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is a marina in Connelly, New York that is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Hudson River. In addition to its exhibits and educational programs, the museum is also actively involved in the local community.

Volunteer Opportunities

The museum offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals who are interested in supporting its mission. Volunteers can assist with everything from museum operations and maintenance to educational programming and special events.

Volunteers are an essential part of the museum's success, and the staff is always looking for enthusiastic individuals who are willing to donate their time and expertise. Whether you're a retiree with a passion for history or a student looking for hands-on experience, there's a volunteer opportunity that's right for you.

Community Outreach Programs

In addition to its volunteer program, the museum also offers a variety of community outreach programs. These programs are designed to bring the museum's exhibits and educational resources to a wider audience, including schools, community organizations, and local businesses.

One of the museum's most popular outreach programs is its "Riverport Wooden Boat School." This program provides hands-on instruction in traditional boat building techniques, and is open to individuals of all ages and skill levels.

Another popular program is the museum's "Riverkeeper Sweep," which is a volunteer event that focuses on cleaning up the Hudson River and its tributaries. The event is held annually in May, and is a great way for individuals and groups to get involved in environmental conservation efforts.

Overall, the Hudson River Maritime Museum is a valuable community resource that offers a variety of opportunities for individuals to get involved and make a difference. Whether you're interested in volunteering your time or participating in one of the museum's outreach programs, there's something for everyone at this unique marina.