<![CDATA[HUDSON RIVER MARITIME MUSEUM - News]]>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 11:00:08 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Hudson River Maritime Museum Brings History to Life with Music, Storytelling, and Theater This August]]>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hudson-river-maritime-museum-brings-history-to-life-with-music-storytelling-and-theater-this-augustFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: John Kelley / Marketing Manager / jkelley@hrmm.org

KINGSTON, NY -- The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) invites the public to experience history in new ways this August through a series of engaging programs featuring live music, storytelling, immersive theater, and historical presentations. Together, these events explore the people, places, and stories that shaped the Hudson Valley and the nation.

On Wednesday, August 12, historian Laura Hertle, Senior Interpreter at the Senate House State Historic Site, presents Enslaved Lives Through Senate House Archives. Part of HRMM's Follow the River Lecture Series, the program draws from thousands of 18th-century documents to uncover the lives of enslaved people living and working in colonial Kingston. The presentation begins at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10, or $5 for HRMM members.

On Thursday, August 20, celebrate America's 250th anniversary with Stories and Songs of the Revolution, featuring renowned storyteller Jonathan Kruk and musician Linda Russell. Blending historical storytelling with traditional music, the performance brings Revolutionary-era heroes, folklore, and songs to life in an entertaining evening for audiences of all ages. The program begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children ages 6–13 and include free admission to the Museum and HRMM's latest REV250 exhibit "Tides of War".

The month concludes on Friday, August 28, with Crime on the Hudson: Gilded Age Pirates and River Thieves, an original production created by HRMM's Education Department in collaboration with Siren Theatre Company. Combining historical interpretation with live theater, the interactive experience transports audiences to the Hudson River of the 1860s and 1870s, where they become part of a dramatic courtroom trial inspired by real events. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $28, or $14 for HRMM members.

"History is most powerful when people can experience it," said John Kelley, Marketing Manager at HRMM. "Whether through detailed archival research, live music, storytelling, or immersive theater, these August programs offer engaging ways to connect with the people and events that shaped our region and country."

Advance registration is recommended, as seating is limited for all programs. Full details and registration information can be found at hrmm.org/lecture-series.

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM Fundraising Golf Tournament Supports Climate Resiliency Initiative]]>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 19:42:27 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-fundraising-golf-tournament-supports-climate-resiliency-initiativeFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: John Kelley / Marketing Manager / jkelley@hrmm.org
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KINGSTON, NY — The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) invites golfers of all skill levels to participate in its first-ever fundraising golf tournament on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Woodstock Golf Club. Proceeds from the event will support the Museum's Sustainability Initiative: Creating a Climate Resilient Campus, helping protect its waterfront campus from increasing flood impacts and preserve it for future generations as HRMM approaches its 50th anniversary in 2029.

Players can choose a morning or afternoon flight and will enjoy 18 holes of golf in a four-person scramble—a fun and accessible format for golfers of every experience level. Participants may register as a foursome or register individually and be placed into a foursome, making it easy for everyone to take part.

Tournament registration includes greens fees, cart, a continental breakfast, and a Hudson Valley farm-to-table lunch prepared by The Clubhouse Woodstock. Lunch-only tickets are also available for those who wish to support the Museum without golfing.

The tournament combines friendly competition with a meaningful cause, raising funds to help ensure the Museum can continue serving the community while adapting to the challenges of climate change.

As part of its commitment to inspiring the next generation of athletes and environmental stewards, HRMM is inviting area high school varsity golf players to participate in sponsored foursomes. The Museum is partnering with local businesses to underwrite these teams, allowing student athletes to play at no cost while introducing them to HRMM's mission of preserving and protecting the Hudson River's maritime heritage.

Registration is now open, and space is limited in both the morning and afternoon flights. To register for the tournament or luncheon, visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum's Ways to Give page.

Businesses and individuals interested in becoming a tournament sponsor or sponsoring a high school varsity student foursome are encouraged to contact Jen Bousliman, Development Manager, at jbousliman@hrmm.org.

​The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[From the River to the Workshop: July Programs at the Hudson River Maritime Museum Offer History, Adventure, and Hands-On Learning]]>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:18:03 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/from-the-river-to-the-workshop-july-programs-at-the-hudson-river-maritime-museum-offer-history-adventure-and-hands-on-learningFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: John Kelley / Marketing Manager / jkelley@hrmm.org

KINGSTON, NY — The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) invites visitors of all ages to explore the Hudson Valley’s history, learn new skills, and enjoy hands-on summer experiences with a full schedule of programs happening throughout July.

Aboard Solaris, HRMM’s 100% solar-powered tour boat, guests can experience the Hudson River from a unique perspective throughout the month. July offerings include Daily Life on the Mahicannituck and Lenape Ways, Cruise to the Rondout Lighthouse, Live Music Cruises, Karaoke Cruises, and other special excursions that combine history, sightseeing, entertainment, and stunning views of the Hudson River.

Music lovers can join HRMM for From the Mountains to the River: Two Evenings of Songs and Stories with Geoff Kaufman on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Homeport Barn. Kaufman, a renowned maritime musician and storyteller, will share songs and stories inspired by the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, and the traditions that connect communities to the river. Guests can continue the experience on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. with Geoff Kaufman aboard Solaris, a special evening cruise featuring live music on the Hudson River.

HRMM’s Sailing School continues its summer season with opportunities for sailors of all experience levels. July offerings include youth sailing programs, Voyager Summer Camp, and Adult Sailing Series Class 2 on July 14, 16, 21, and 23, providing students with the chance to develop sailing skills, build confidence on the water, and experience the Hudson River firsthand.

The Woodworking School will also offer opportunities for hands-on learning this summer, including Build a Shaker-Style End Table on July 18, 19, and 25, followed by the Furniture Restoration and Repair Workshop on Sunday, August 2. These classes introduce participants to traditional woodworking techniques while working alongside experienced instructors in HRMM’s woodworking facility.

The month concludes with The Keeper Screening & Talk with Jon Bowermaster and special guest John Lipscomb on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the Homeport Barn. The special screening and discussion explores the importance of protecting the Hudson River and the ongoing work of river advocates.

Whether cruising aboard Solaris, enjoying live music, learning to sail, creating with wood, or discovering the history of the Hudson River, HRMM offers countless ways to experience the region this summer.
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For tickets, registration, and the complete schedule of events, visit www.hrmm.org.

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM Welcomes Acclaimed Maritime Musician Geoff Kaufman for Two Special July Performances]]>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:44:38 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-welcomes-acclaimed-maritime-musician-geoff-kaufman-for-two-special-july-performancesFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Emma Foster / Museum Programs / efoster@hrmm.org

KINGSTON, NY – The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) is pleased to welcome renowned maritime musician and storyteller Geoff Kaufman back to Kingston for two special performances celebrating the rich traditions of folk and maritime music.
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On Friday, July 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM, Kaufman will perform in HRMM's Homeport Barn, offering an intimate evening of songs and stories with a special focus on folksongs of the Catskills collected at Camp Woodland outside of Phoenicia, along with other local songs and tales. Known for his engaging stage presence, powerful voice, and deep knowledge of traditional music, Kaufman has spent decades sharing songs of the sea and the people who lived and worked on the water.
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The following evening, Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM, guests can enjoy a live musical cruise aboard HRMM's solar-powered tour vessel, Solaris, as Kaufman performs songs drawn from his years of sailing on the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater and singing with Pete Seeger as a member of the the Sloop Singers while cruising the scenic Rondout Creek. 

Whether on land or aboard Solaris, audiences can expect an unforgettable evening of music, history, and community. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum's website at hrmm.org.

About Geoff Kaufman – Although Geoff is best known for his 35 years of singing and organizing maritime music programs at Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut, he has maintained an active touring career throughout his professional life. Since retiring from Mystic Seaport in 2019, Kaufman has expanded his repertoire to include music addressing social justice issues while continuing to perform the traditional songs and ballads that have inspired him throughout his career. Whether singing a cappella or accompanied, Kaufman's performances are celebrated for their warmth, authenticity, and emotional depth.

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM Opens New Revolutionary War Exhibit, Tides of War, June 29]]>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 20:46:45 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-opens-new-revolutionary-war-exhibit-tides-of-war-on-june-29​FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Sara Russell / Museum Educator / srussell@hrmm.org

KINGSTON, NY – The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) is proud to announce the opening of Tides of War, a new special exhibition debuting on June 29, 2026. The exhibit examines the Hudson River's critical role during the American Revolution through the experiences of the everyday people whose lives were shaped by the conflict.

While maritime control of the Hudson River was essential to both the British and American war efforts, Tides of War focuses on the individuals and communities caught in the struggle. Through stories of sailors, prisoners, merchants, soldiers, and local residents, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of how the war affected life in the Hudson Valley.

“The 250th anniversary of the American Revolution provides a perfect moment to revisit the Hudson River's critical role in our nation's founding,” said Lisa Cline, HRMM Executive Director. “By focusing on the experiences of ordinary people, Tides of War helps visitors connect with the human stories behind the conflict and better understand how the Revolution transformed communities throughout the Hudson Valley.”

Designed as a social history exhibit, Tides of War explores the difficult choices people faced during the Revolution and the consequences of choosing sides. Visitors will encounter the human stories behind well-known historical figures, learn about the little-known fleet prisons anchored on Rondout Creek, follow the experiences of those aboard the American gunboat Lady Washington, and examine how privateers on both sides profited from war.

By blending maritime history with personal narratives, Tides of War offers a fresh perspective on a familiar chapter of American history and highlights the profound impact the Revolution had on the people who lived along the Hudson River.

The exhibition opens Monday, June 29, 2026, at the Hudson River Maritime Museum and is included with regular museum admission. An exclusive opening event for HRMM members will be held on Sunday, June 28 from 4pm to 7pm.

For more information on Tides of War, other upcoming programs and exhibitions or becoming a member visit hrmm.org.

Sponsored in Part by MHV Federal Credit Union, J.M. Kaplan Fund, Ulster Savings Bank, Ulster County Rev250 and Stewart's Shops.

Funded in Part by the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area​.

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM Presents “A Light on the River: The Lighthouse Keepers of the Gilded Age” Performance Lecture]]>Wed, 27 May 2026 20:22:27 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-presents-a-light-on-the-river-the-lighthouse-keepers-of-the-gilded-age-performanceFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Emma Foster / Museum Educator / efoster@hrmm.org

KINGSTON, NY -- The Hudson River Maritime Museum will present A Light on the River: The Lighthouse Keepers of the Gilded Age on June 12 and 13 at 7:00 PM at the museum’s waterfront campus in Kingston. This unique evening program combines historical scholarship with live theatrical performance to explore the lives of lighthouse keepers along the Hudson River during the late nineteenth century.

Audience members will learn about the real-life Murdock family, who served as keepers of the Rondout Light for generations, before being transported to Kingston in 1884 through an original immersive theatrical production. Set as the Murdocks prepare for an approaching storm, the performance offers a vivid look at the challenges, responsibilities, and family life behind one of America’s most isolated professions.

The program includes a short historical lecture followed by a full-length play created and presented by HRMM’s Education Department in collaboration with Siren Theatre Company. Together, the organizations blend storytelling and historical interpretation to bring Hudson Valley maritime history to life.

Tickets are $18 for museum members and $32 for general admission. Additional information and registration details are available at HRMM.org.

This project is made possible with funds from the New York State Legislature and administered by Arts Mid-Hudson.

Siren Theatre Company is a Hudson Valley-based performing arts group founded by Caitlin Connelly, Tricia Anderson, and Maclain Maier. Specializing in original immersive productions inspired by history, the company’s work is designed to spark dialogue, encourage new perspectives, and create meaningful audience experiences. Visit them on Facebook.

​The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.
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For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM Presents Little Red Riding Hood Puppet Show for Families]]>Fri, 22 May 2026 16:40:53 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-presents-little-red-riding-hood-puppet-show-for-familiesFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: John Kelley / PR & Marketing Manager / jkelley@hrmm.org
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KINGSTON, NY — The Hudson River Maritime Museum will host a special family performance of Little Red Riding Hood Show at HRMM! on Sunday, May 31 at 3pm. Featuring award-winning puppeteer Liz Joyce, this lively production brings the classic fairy tale to life with humor, music, and handcrafted puppets.

Children and families will delight in this traditional tale with a twist as Little Red Riding Hood gets mixed up with Porquoi the pig, who has wandered in from the wrong story entirely. Complete with changing scenery, original music, and charming hand puppets, the interactive show encourages audiences to cheer for Little Red and help outsmart the wolf.

Liz Joyce is an accomplished puppeteer, writer, director, and performer known for creating imaginative productions for children ages 10 months to 10 years. Joyce has performed at venues including Symphony Space, HERE Performing Arts Center, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, and numerous festivals and schools throughout the United States and abroad. She is also the founder of A Couple of Puppets, a Hudson Valley-based puppetry company dedicated to creating engaging live performances for young audiences.

Tickets are $10 per person. Families can find additional event details and ticket information at HRMM.org.
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The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.
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For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[Hudson River Maritime Museum Announces 2026 Solaris Tour Season]]>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:19:42 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hudson-river-maritime-museum-announces-2026-solaris-tour-seasonFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Abby Drayer / Solaris Coordinator / adrayer@hrmm.org

Kingston, NY -- The Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) is pleased to announce its 2026 season of tours aboard Solaris, its 100% solar-powered tour boat. From historical overviews to scenic views, Solaris continues to offer memorable on-the-water experiences for visitors of all interests.

In 2026, HRMM will present a wide variety of programming, including lectures, live music, sightseeing excursions, and nature-focused tours. Whether guests are seeking entertainment, education, or relaxation, the Solaris lineup offers something for everyone.
Music lovers can once again enjoy HRMM’s popular Live Music Cruises, departing at 6:00 PM on Saturday evenings throughout the season. New this year, guests can take center stage themselves during Karaoke Aboard Solaris, held on the first Friday of each month—an interactive and lively way to experience the Hudson River.

For those looking to learn and grow, Solaris will host a series of engaging onboard lectures. Guests can explore topics such as Indigenous history through programs like Daily Lenape Life and The River People, or dive into regional infrastructure with D&H Canal History. Visitors seeking a more meditative experience can unwind with River Gong with HariPrakaash, a full-body sound immersion designed to relax and restore.

​The 2026 season also introduces several new offerings:​
  • Karaoke Aboard Solaris – A fun, social cruise inviting guests to sing along with friends.
  • Birdwatching Aboard Solaris – Led by a local birding expert, this quiet, solar-powered experience allows for close, non-intrusive views of local birdlife.
  • Brunch Cruises – In partnership with Half Moon Café, these cruises feature light refreshments and will be available on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and select Sundays throughout the summer.

On-The-Creek Lighthouse Tours – A new format of HRMM’s most popular tour, offering up-close exterior views of the Rondout Lighthouse from the comfort of Solaris. A key highlight of the 2026 season is an increased focus on accessibility. Building on the success of the museum’s most popular offering, HRMM is introducing the On-The-Creek Lighthouse Tours, designed to welcome a broader audience.

According to HRMM Solaris Coordinator Abby Drayer, “Over the years, the Rondout Lighthouse Tour has been our most popular tour. This year, we are introducing an additional, new type of Lighthouse tour: the On-The-Creek Lighthouse Tours. These new tours are more physically accessible, as they do not include the stairs required to navigate the interior of the lighthouse. While this tour does not include exploration of the inside of the Rondout Lighthouse, the On-The-Creek Lighthouse Tours offers up-close exterior views of the Rondout Lighthouse and historical information from our knowledgeable guides, all from the comfort of Solaris. We are excited to expand this popular historical experience to a broader audience for the 2026 season.”

Additional seasonal programming will debut in the fall, including autumn-themed cruises such as leaf peeping excursions, cider tastings, and more.

Solaris Tickets and additional information can be found here or visit hrmm.org 

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM Announces Connecting to History Through Wild Foods Lecture with Anna Plattner and Justin Wexler of Wild Hudson Valley]]>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:52:49 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-announces-connecting-to-history-through-wild-foods-lecture-with-anna-plattner-and-justin-wexler-of-wild-hudson-valleyFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Emma Foster / Museum Educator / efoster@hrmm.org
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Program Title: Connecting to History Through Wild Foods
Date & Time: May 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum - 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston, NY
Pricing: $10/non member - $5/ HRMM members

​Kingston, NY – Discover the deep connections between nature, history, and food at Connecting to History Through Wild Foods, an engaging lecture that explores the edible landscape of the Hudson Valley and its cultural roots.

Presented by co-founders Anna Plattner and Justin Wexler of Wild Hudson Valley, this interactive talk highlights how wild plants have sustained the region’s inhabitants for thousands of years—and how they continue to shape our understanding of place today.
Drawing on their work in forest farming, education, and land stewardship, Plattner and Wexler will share how they connect modern audiences to the past through guided foraging walks, workshops on Northeastern Native land stewardship, and innovative programs like a wild food CSA. Attendees will gain insight into the ecological, cultural, and historical significance of the Hudson Valley’s diverse plant life—while seeing the landscape in a whole new way.

Both speakers bring extensive expertise to their work. Plattner, a graduate of Cornell University, has spent over two decades managing large-scale agroforestry operations. Wexler, an ethnoecologist trained at Marlboro College and Bard College, combines fieldwork with archival research to explore the land use practices and cultural traditions of Native communities in the Hudson and Delaware Valleys.
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This event offers a fresh, immersive perspective on Hudson Valley history—one that engages both the mind and the senses.

Event Details & Registration:
Tickets and additional information can be found here or visit hrmm.org 

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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]]><![CDATA[HRMM to Host Stephen Blauweiss for Historic Rondout Multimedia Lecture Series]]>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:54:11 GMThttps://www.hrmm.org/news/hrmm-to-host-stephen-blauweiss-for-historic-rondout-multimedia-lecture-seriesFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Emma Foster / Museum Educator / efoster@hrmm.org
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Kingston, NY – This May, acclaimed historian and filmmaker Stephen Blauweiss headlines a dynamic three-part lecture series that invites audiences to explore the rich, surprising, and often overlooked stories of the Kingston Rondout. Blending meticulously restored historic imagery, engaging storytelling, and multimedia presentations, the series offers a fresh and entertaining perspective on regional and cultural history.

Designed for both longtime residents and curious newcomers, each event delivers an immersive experience—far from a traditional classroom lecture—complete with compelling visuals, little-known anecdotes, and opportunities for audience interaction.

Series Lineup:

Rondout (Re) Visited — May 6
Step back in time with Stephen Blauweiss for a vivid, multimedia exploration of the historic Rondout neighborhood before more than 600 structures were demolished. This “virtual walk” features striking “Then & Now” comparisons and a remarkable collection of restored images, including rare glimpses of the famed Kingston Point Amusement Park in its heyday. Packed with fascinating, lesser-known stories, this presentation promises to both delight and inform—followed by a live Q&A session.

The Dutch and Their New York Legacy — May 13
In this engaging and accessible talk, Stephen Blauweiss unravels the often-overlooked influence of Dutch history in New York. Using an array of maps, timelines, and vivid imagery, Blauweiss connects the dots between fragmented historical narratives, transforming a complex subject into a clear, compelling story that resonates across generations.

Sharkey and His Pals! — May 27
Join filmmakers Gary Bohan Jr. and Stephen Blauweiss for an entertaining and heartwarming presentation featuring exclusive segments from their upcoming documentary Sharkey & His Pals. Audiences will meet Sharkey, a charismatic sea lion trained in Kingston at the legendary Seal College, whose remarkable personality and talent led him to Broadway and beyond. Through stories of show business history, humor, and the powerful bond between animal and trainer, this event promises surprises, laughter, and inspiration.

Event Details & Registration:
Tickets and additional information can be found here or visit hrmm.org 

Stephen Blauweiss is an historian with over 30 years experience as an independent filmmaker and produces work on a wide variety of subjects, from art and education to social and environmental issues. He has produced over 75 short films, including three features. Twenty of his short films about artists have aired on American Public Television and have been screened in museums and festivals across the U.S., Europe and Canada, including the New York State Museum, Mass Moca, the Albany Institute of History & Art, and the Dorsky Museum of Art.

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries and related industries. In addition to extensive collections documenting maritime transportation, industry, recreation, and natural science, the museum offers classes and programs at its Woodworking School, Sailing and Rowing School, and aboard Solaris, the 100% solar powered tour boat and floating classroom. Now in its 46th year, HRMM is located along the historic Rondout waterfront in downtown Kingston.

For more information about the Hudson River Maritime Museum, please visit hrmm.org, find HRMM on Facebook, or call 845.338.0071.
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