- To preserve, restore and renew the Lilac to its original condition and purpose as a steaming vessel.
- To serve as an educational aide and service vessel to the community, by any means that will enhance the environment, increase the education of young people, instill value and knowledge of historic vessels, places and objects.
- To, above all, create an understanding of the importance of her as a unique vessel.
The members of the board, volunteers, and friends of Lilac have been a part of her story since finding her on the James River in Virginia, in1999. It was as clear then as it is today, that the ultimate vision for her was to thrive once again as a steaming service vessel.
Our vision includes seeing her coast along the shores of the Hudson, cruise in New York Harbor, and revisit her old stomping grounds of the Delaware River, all proudly under way with a full head of steam. However, purpose is at the root of this vision, and Lilac will once again have a mission to complete with a volunteer crew to guide her.
It is vital and important to this project that she not only serves those who want an occasional leisurely ride, but also those who need her. So, whether it is an educational or artistic staging, or an environmental restoration or stewardship project, or just a place for kids to meet, feel safe and have fun, Lilac will be there as she always has been--to serve.
Waypoints
We want to see the Lilac steaming once again and become a purposeful and vital part of our waterfront. Also, we want to support causes. Here are just some of the ways we see using her within the community:
- Using her 20-ton crane, ample deck space and maneuverability as a vessel for environmental andwaterfront access projects. Possible projects include putting in docks and moving out old ones for other non-profits, assisting in waterfront cleaning operations, moving recyclable materials, and stowing and casting off small boats for use in youth programs.
- Making her a sustainable vessel by using alternative fuel sources such as biodiesel--she can become a working example of a marine vessel helping the environment.
- Hosting maritime educational programs for schools and community groups portside, underway and overnight, including a waterfront classroom for natural environment interpretive education.
- Hosting cultural events such as plays, readings, art exhibits, and musical concerts.
- Making her into a center for youth after school: a meeting place for other activities or a place to catch up on homework.
- Engaging teens in service learning projects in which they investigate a need in the community, educate themselves about the community and its concerns, and develop a plan to meet that need. In the future, we hope to install a permanent after-school program for teenagers who will serve as docents for younger kids who board Lilac for educational trips.
Teens, adults and elders, and some veterans already join forces with volunteers and other professionals in maintaining and preserving her aesthetics, structures and systems.
Restoration work on the forecastle bunkroom, galley, officer’s cabins, and heat and water systems has already begun to prepare these areas for overnight programs, educational day programs, experiential learning activities for scout groups, and community organizations and schools.
In summary, we hope to make Lilac a center for activities for all kinds of people. We hope to accentuate her versatility as a ship by using her decks to meet current needs and concerns for our waterfront, our communities, and its citizens.
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