The Keeper Film Screening s+6
at The Seaport Museum

Kick off your Earth Day celebrations with filmmaker Jon Bowermaster for a special screening of his recent documentary The Keeper, which explores the life and legacy of John Lipscomb who spent 25 years patrolling the Hudson.

Cantankerous, charismatic, and deeply committed, Lipscomb reflects on his decades traveling over 80,000 miles by wooden boat to protect and defend what is known as “America’s First River.” Once a vital resource and, for a time, a dumping ground for a growing nation, the Hudson has faced decades of environmental challenges. At the forefront of its recovery has been Lipscomb, serving as both advocate and watchdog—taking on industrial and human pollution, weathering setbacks, and celebrating hard-won victories.

This film offers an in-depth look at the Hudson River’s environmental history and its global significance, highlighting the ongoing work of more than 300 “keepers” around the world. It’s a story of resilience, activism, and the enduring fight to protect our waterways.

The screening will take place in the intimate setting of the 1885 tall ship Wavertree’s ‘tweendeck, creating a truly immersive experience. A Q&A with the filmmaker will follow the screening and a reception with wine and seltzer will close the evening.