2026  Corsair History

Let’s continue the story of how Calvin Coffey ’74 and Bill Strobel ’76 became inspired to restore the long-neglected Corsair. Meaningful change—and the chance to create something better—requires action. For Cal and Bill, that meant deciding it was time to bring the Corsair back to life. They began reaching out to former teammates, sharing the idea, and building support for restoring the boat to like-new condition so it could one day be rowed again.

For former oarsmen, the idea stirred something powerful: the chance to reconnect with a shared past, retell the stories that had echoed through decades, and imagine a historic shell—one built to sing across the water—being restored as a source of pride and inspiration for future generations. From that spark, Project Corsair was born in February 2026.

• Old teammates and friends embraced the vision and believed in the project.
• The team assessed the skills, resources, and capabilities needed to complete a full restoration.
• Through Cal and Maggie Coffey, the Finger Lakes Boating Museum (FLBM) became a key partner, providing a home and support for the physical restoration work.
• Northeastern University brought the Corsair down from a top rack at Henderson Boathouse and documented the boat’s condition. The footage made one thing clear: the restoration would be a serious undertaking.
• The alumni group worked out an arrangement with Northeastern to purchase the Corsair, restore it, and collaborate with the university on ways the boat could support positive development for Men’s Rowing.
• The next challenge was getting an aging shell from Boston to Hammondsport, New York. After checking with former teammates and contacts, Larry O’Toole of Gentle Giant Moving Company stepped forward and arranged transportation to the FLBM. Photos of the old beauty arriving for its extended rehabilitation are remarkable to see.
• A working committee was formed to guide restoration, communications, fundraising, and alumni engagement, helping turn the dream into a reality.

Project Corsair—the restoration of the Donoratico Corsair—is now underway. To learn more about the restoration and follow the project’s progress, visit the Project Corsair restoration website.