The Museum’s Docents are a corps of more than 40 adult volunteers and an integral part of the HRM. Each year, they lead engaging and informative tours of our permanent collection, special exhibitions, and Glenview historic home for thousands of students and adults. Docents are often the first people students meet, and they always leave a lasting impression on our visitors. All Docents attend weekly training sessions in all of the Museum’s offerings and current museum education pedagogy.

But it isn’t all work and no play for the Docents; they recently gathered together at the HRM to celebrate the holidays, with an environmentally friendly twist. Inspired by the message of Maya Lin: A River is a Drawing, which highlights environmental issues and the ongoing effects of climate change, the Docents eschewed disposable dinnerware and each brought their own plates, cups, silverware, and serving utensils. In addition, they crafted eclectic tablescapes with centerpieces made of reusable items and tablecloths that belonged to the Docents themselves. This achieved a festive atmosphere with a low carbon footprint. Furthermore, leftovers were donated to the Yonkers Sharing Community, and all food scraps were collected and taken to the composting center in Veteran Park in Greenburgh. Longtime Docent Maria Miehle says, “This is just one small way to do our part to keep our city, and river, a bit cleaner.”

From all of us at the Hudson River Museum, have a happy, healthy—and environmentally conscious!—holiday season.