Name/Title
92nd Annual Bull Family Picnic - August 22, 1959Entry/Object ID
002188Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association, Bull PicnicScope and Content
This document is a program and annual report for the 92nd Annual Bull Picnic, held on August 22, 1959, at the historic Bull Stone House (built in 1722) in Hamptonburgh, New York. The event was organized by the William Bull and Sarah Wells Family Association.
The following is a summary of the key highlights from the report:
Historical Commemorations
350th Anniversary: The Association participated in a parade in Montgomery on July 3, 1959, celebrating the explorations of Henry Hudson and Samuel de Champlain, as well as the 250th anniversary of the settlement of Montgomery (formerly Ward’s Bridge).
Sarah Wells Recognition: The report highlights the dedication of "The Sarah Wells Library" at Orange County Community College on January 8, 1959. It also details the history of the Sarah Wells Trail, a 7.2-mile stretch of road officially named in 1933 to honor the family matriarch.
Association Business & Transitions
In Memoriam: The Association noted the passing of E. Norman Bull, a long-time Board member who was instrumental in the acquisition of the Stone House.
New Officers: The meeting agenda included the election of three managers to replace Robert McLeod Jackson, Henry P. Bull, and Margaret McClung Wilcox, whose terms expired in 1959.
Official Leadership: Rev. Charles Beattie Thompson served as President, and Henry P. Bull served as Treasurer. Miss Dolly W. Booth was noted as the Family Genealogist.
Financial Reports (July 1, 1958 – July 1, 1959)
The document provides a detailed breakdown of the Association's finances across three primary funds:
General Fund: Started with a balance of $771.26. Major expenses included school and property taxes, insurance, and $309.00 for repairing the roof and gutters of the Stone House. The year-end balance was $1,000.99.
Endowment Fund: Totaled over $11,000 in assets. The report reflects a shift in strategy, move some funds from savings into "high caliber" stocks such as American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T) and various mutual funds.
Genealogy Fund: Used for maintaining family records, ending the year with a balance of $681.73.
Event Logistics
Picnic Details: The event featured a "Basket Luncheon" at noon and a "Supper" for those arriving after work. It was held "rain or shine," with the house and barn serving as backup venues for inclement weather.
Location: A hand-drawn map shows the Stone House located at the intersection of Hamptonburgh Road and Craigville Road, just off the Sarah Wells Trail.
