Charter Excursions to Bear Mountain

Editor's note: The following articles are from the New York Age and Tattler, newspapers serving the Black communities published in New York City. Thank you to Contributing Scholar George A. Thompson for finding, cataloging and transcribing these articles. The language, spelling and grammar of the article reflects the time period when it was written.

Steambosts "Rosedale", "Commander" and "Mary Powell at Bear Mountain pier about 1910. Donald C. Ringwald Collection, Hudson River Maritime Museum.

New York Age, July 6, 1911 On July 13, 1911, the Abyssinian Baptist Church and Sabbath School will go on their annual excursion to Empire Grove on the Hudson River, 33 miles from New York City.  The following are some of the features at this grove: Athletic playground, swings, boats, bathing, Etc.  All the friends of the church and Sabbath School who desire a nice quiet day's outing are cordially invited to go.  The beautiful steamer Rosedale has been chartered for the occasion.  The committee reserves the right to and will exclude any and all objectionable persons.  No dancing or games of chance will be allowed either on the boat or in the grove.  Tickets: Adults, 50 cents, children 12 years and under, 25 cents.  Tickets sold by the committee at the dock only.  J. H. Page, chairman.  Music by Excelsior Military Band.

Tattler, August 8, 1930 As soon as the mercury hangs around ninety, we Dark Harlemites get a sea-going fever, which expresses itself in navy blue and white flannels, berets and yacht parties. Among the activities of this group -- one which the younger set, and those of the older sets who still cling to their young ideas, count as par excellent - is the annual yacht party of the Harry Henley Osbiny Club.
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Sailing orders this year designated Friday evening, August 1st, the Steamer Onteora. By the appointed hour, 7:30, a stream of merry makers overran the three decks of the Onteora, and settled themselves for a long summer's cruise up the Hudson River to Bear Mountain. The usual nautical sports were indulged in -- hand-holding, dining, eating, sipping. And a perfect sail was enjoyed by all.

Steamboats "Onteora" and "Clermont" at Bear Mountain in July 1928. Tracey I. Brooks Collection, Hudson River Maritime Museum.

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