The late 1960s were a time of political and social upheaval in the United States. Taking action to protect the river was a natural extension of the sentiments of that time, that are once again mainstream today. Clearwater inspired families and friends to work alongside each other to protect the resource flowing through their community. Today, Clearwater holds generations together through collective work to bring about a cleaner, greener, safer world. The memories in the Generations Story Archive share why grassroots generosity and community action are powerful forces for good.
“Beginning Before Clearwater Was Born.”
Dear Clearwater, As children, my grandmother and her sister used to walk out to the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse at low-tide, often waiting too long until the tide was too high for them to walk back, [...]
“Clearwater Through and Through.”
Dear Clearwater, The Armour Family in 1994. It’s daunting to try to map out my family’s Clearwater story because I consider myself tremendously fortunate to have been born into this vibrant community. The [...]
“Four Generations of Clearwater.”
Dear Clearwater, I can recall my first memory of Clearwater, visiting with my parents down at South Street Seaport, not long after the Clearwater had first sailed into New York. Even as a boy I [...]
“Baby on Board.”
Dear Clearwater, This story starts in 2007, when Captain Julia Wilson was pregnant with her first child. She finished out the '07 season - well into her 2nd trimester and I was hired to replace [...]
“Clearwater Holds Generations Together in Harmony.”
Dear Clearwater, Like so many people, the beloved sloop has played a huge role in my life. I have a million stories from the decks of that fine boat but let me share with you [...]
“Clearwater is Where Your Family Grows.”
Dear Clearwater, It makes me happy to see my daughter, a former crew member, have this outlet and purpose, sail and environmental education. Seeing the close connection binding her and my grandson, over a [...]
Remembering Al Nejmeh – A Story by Kevin Jones with Hudson River Sloop Clearwater
Dear Clearwater, One afternoon, aboard the Soviet American Sail, while preparations for a meal were taking place, a container of hot water slid off a table in the main dining area and landed on some [...]
The stories shared include tales from generations of winter’s past, potlucks, protests, volunteering to feed thousands at revival, and most importantly, bringing The Sailing Classroom to hundreds of thousands of Hudson Valley dwellers.
Thank you for supporting Clearwater. Consider donating as we sail into our 54th year!