Despite stormy skies, the view from the Hudson River overlook at the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in Hyde Park on June 23 was picturesque.
“I’ve always said the greatest thing about this view of the Hudson from Dutchess County is its view of Ulster County,“ said U.S. Rep. Maurice Hinchey (D-Hurley) drawing laughter from a crowd of about 25 people who gathered for Monday’s announcement, including representatives from the offices of Congressman John Hall (D-Carmel) and Congresswoman Kristen Gillibrand (D-Hudson) – who were instrumental in securing the funds – the initial approval of $1 million in federal funding, in addition to the nearly $500,000 approved in late 2007 – as well as state and local officials.
“Because this was an important view historically, and today is undoubtedly one of the best vantage points from which to appreciate the river, we thought this would be the perfect place to launch our Quadricentennial projects,” said Roosevelt-Vanderbilt Superintendent Sarah Olson, in a statement before the event.
Hinchey secured the funds in the 2008 National Park Service budget for next year’s Quadricentennial events in both the Hudson and Champlain Valleys; afterward, he turned them over the Olson.
“What we’re trying to do is focus as much attention on this event as possible, and we’re lucky to have a great leader,” Hinchey said. “She (Olson) has come up with wonderful ideas of how to spend this money in the most effective ways.”
Hinchey praised the National Park Service for its efforts in planning for the funding.
“I am very pleased that the National Park Service has designed a well-rounded plan to utilize the federal funds I helped secure for the quadricentennial celebration and look forward to ensuring final passage of an additional $1 million in federal funds for the upcoming events,” Hinchey said. “Next year’s celebrations will truly be memorable for all those who participate in the many different events throughout the state and region.”
The funds – which will be used to promote the 400th anniversary of the Hudson and Champlain voyages, and the 200th year anniversary of the Fulton steam ship’s trip up the Hudson – will support a number of projects, including school programs, recreational trails, celebratory sails, exhibits and brochures. Some projects will be carried out by the Hudson River Valley Greenway and the River Valley National Heritage Area; others will be carried out in partnership with state and federal organizations, including the New York State Museum, Erie Canal National Heritage Area and Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Hinchey is seeking an additional $1 million in funding, expected to be voted on this week by the House of Representative Appropriations Committee. Afterward, Hinchey and Olson plan to work with local organizations to raise $1 million more.
Hudson Valley artist Ted Spiegel commemorated the event by presenting Hinchey with a framed photograph of the view from the Vanderbilt Mansion site.
“A whole lot of Americans who started their lives here – or whose parents or grandparents started their lives here – will be coming back,” said Hinchey, “We have a lot of good things started here, and I’m really excited about it.”
(Steve Hopkins and Andrew Hickey contributed to this article)