The late Ariel Verdesi, in addition to being a longtime Presbyterian Minister, was a highly accomplished builder of model boats, particularly steamboats that plied the waters of the Hudson River. Kendal has a love and a direct connection to these now-gone queens of the waterways as its four buildings are named after these ships.
Ariel had hoped to construct one for each of the buildings but before his death completed only two, the Clermont and the Mary Powell.
Ariel's models are displayed at the first floor entrance. His workmanship is outstanding and beautiful. Make sure you stop by and carefully examine what he has done.
Not only was Ariel a great craftsman, he was also a great and wonderful person. We are delighted to have his work exhibited as a remembrance of him.