The brainchild of folksinger and river advocate Pete Seeger, Clearwater serves as a reminder of the Hudson’s rich history, a cultural icon for environmental awareness, and a floating classroom and laboratory. The Clearwater was inspired by the hard-working sloops of the 19th century, depicted in their day by artists of the famed Hudson River School. The amazing Hudson River School landscapes helped America re-frame its perceptions about nature, setting the stage for modern environmental thought. Clearwater’s New Hudson River School also changes perceptions of the river. The New Hudson River School’s interactive education programs make students part of the lesson. They promote “learning by doing” to reinforce concepts learned in the classroom. Students and educators can chart a course for environmental leadership through a rich menu of experiences, and acquire skills to last a lifetime.