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Hudson River
The "North River"
by John Coppola
The Hudson River, extending from the Upper Bay to the George Washington Bridge, is
called the North River by commercial seamen to distinguish it from the East River. The
latter is really not a river, but a tidal pool.
Most MYC skippers know that it is almost impossible to sail from the marina to the GW
Bridge during the course of a typical 4 hour sail-owing to prevailing winds and current.
But once in awhile, conditions make this trip possible, and when it does, there are
wonderful sites to pass along both shorelines. Just some of these are described below.
North, one of the first things to see are the air shafts for the Lincoln Tunnel-flanking
both shores. Weehawken Park (Aaron-Hamilton duel site) can be seen on the Jersey side
almost opposite the Chelsea Pier. Then comes the fighting ship USS INTREPID, flanked by
her escort of destroyers, minesweepers and submarine. This great ship refused to die after
being hit by Japanese bombs and kamikazes. When you sail by her, listen carefully and you
will hear the cries of dying sailors and cursing officers screaming words of encouragement
to the crew to keep her afloat. Visit her from the land-it's worthwhile.
Continuing North and high above Morningside Heights, you'll see Grant's Tomb-now being
renovated after years of vandalism and neglect. Ulyses S Grant, West Point graduate,
business failure, alcoholic, savior of the Union and President of the United States. The
name, Uncle Sam, comes from the U S in Grant's name. Can you hear Grant shouting orders at
the Battle of the Wilderness, driving his men on to the final defeat of Robert E Lee? Can
you hear his generous words to Lee at the surrendur of Appomatox?
Finally, you reach your destination-the GW Bridge. Look at the Jersey stanchion. At its
base, you'll see the camp of the last family (the Scotts) of North River fishermen who
make their living by harvesting crabs and catching shad. Their land is worth millions but
they refuse to give up their family traditions. Now sail to the New York stanchion and you
will see the tiniest, but most beautifu ,lighthouse you ever saw.
If you've made it this far, I hope the wind and current are favorable for the sail home,
or you made sure you had a full tank of gas before you left.
- March 2000
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