Name/Title
74th Annual Bull Family Picnic - August 27, 1941Entry/Object ID
002170Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association, Bull PicnicScope and Content
These documents are pages from an announcement and report for the 74th Annual Bull Picnic, a reunion of the William Bull and Sarah Wells Family Association, held on August 27, 1941, at the historic Stone House in Hamptonburgh, New York.
The documents provide a charming snapshot of a large family association managing its heritage on the eve of the U.S. entry into World War II.
Event Logistics
Location: The Stone House, located on the "Sarah Wells Trail" about four miles from Goshen, NY.
Schedule: Basket luncheons began at noon, followed by a business meeting at 1:30 PM. Dancing for "young people" was scheduled for the late afternoon (3:00–6:00 PM).
Rain Plan: The report notes that the barn floor was recently completed, providing 1,700 sq. ft. of space to shelter the entire gathering if it rained.
Property & Preservation
The "Property Committee" reported significant maintenance on the family’s ancestral buildings:
The Stone House: The roof was repaired using 70-year-old slate shingles found in the attic to maintain historical accuracy.
The Barn: Described as older than the house (built in 1722), it was stabilized with new siding and a dry wall foundation.
The Farm: The surrounding land was rented to a neighbor for $225 per year, which covered the association's taxes and insurance.
Genealogy & History
Official Genealogist: The managers recommended establishing an official role for family genealogy, nominating Miss Dolly W. Booth for the position.
Historical Records: The family was actively seeking information on specific branches, including the descendants of Capt. George Bull and the Thorne family.
Artifacts: Daguerreotypes of Daniel Bull (of Bullville) and his wife were made available for viewing and reproduction.
Financial Status
The Treasurer’s Report (submitted by Ernest M. Bull) shows a healthy association:
General Fund: Had a balance of $764.91 as of July 1941.
Endowment Account: Held $3,810.91, funded by legacies and interest.
Costs: Major expenses included $260.30 for roof and barn repairs and $163.56 in taxes.
Leadership (1941)
President: Amy Bull Crist
Vice-President: Henry P. Bull
Treasurer: Ernest M. Bull
Secretary: Robert McLeod Jackson
