The History

A Legacy on the Hudson:

Located in downtown Kingston on the historic Rondout, The Cornell celebrates the Hudson River Valley’s rich maritime heritage and the legacy of the Cornell Steamboat Company.

For over a century, the Cornell Steamboat Company defined an era of industry, ingenuity, and community on the Hudson. Founded in 1837 by Thomas Cornell, the operation grew from a single sloop into the nation’s leading tugboat company, driving the economic heartbeat of the Hudson Valley. From the bustling docks of Rondout Creek to the brick stacks of Kingston, Cornell’s fleet towed coal, stone, and lumber—fueling the growth of NYC and beyond.

At its peak, the Cornell Steamboat Company commanded over sixty tugboats, transforming the Hudson into a lifeline of commerce. This was more than a business—it was a family legacy. Generations of local families, such as the Dwyers and the Feeneys, built their lives on these docks; and their stories are woven into Kingston’s rich history. In 1964, after 137 years, the Cornell Steamboat Company closed its doors. Yet, its legacy remains.

We honor that history—not just in name, but in spirit. Like the generations before us, we’re here to bring people together, to celebrate the richness of local tradition, and to keep the story of the Hudson alive and thriving.