Name/Title
115th Annual Bull Family Picnic - August 28, 1982Entry/Object ID
002212Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association, Bull PicnicScope and Content
Based on the provided images, here is a summary of the 1982 "Bull"-E-Tins newsletter and program for the William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association.
Event Overview
The newsletter announces the 115th Annual Bull Family Meeting and Picnic, held on Saturday, August 28, 1982, at the historic Bull Stone House in Hamptonburgh, New York.
Schedule: The day includes a picnic lunch at noon, followed by an annual business meeting at 1:00 PM to elect five directors and conduct association business.
Traditions: Attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch, lawn chairs, and "plenty of food" to stay for supper. Pets are explicitly prohibited.
Board & Financial Activity (July 1981 – June 1982)
The Board of Directors reported several major updates regarding the preservation of the homestead:
Restoration & Maintenance
Energy Efficiency: To combat rising fuel costs, the association replaced an oil burner and installed fire-retardant cellulose insulation in the attic of the Stone House.
Structural Repairs: Under the guidance of historical architect Daniel Hopping and restoration specialist Mr. Phelps, the Barn and Carriage House exteriors were restored. Efforts were also made to repair the foundation and roof of the "little house."
Land Management: A new tenant farmer, John Sosler, was brought in to restore the health of the soil by planting corn and grazing cattle. Additionally, the pond was dredged of silt to restore water levels for fire protection.
Financial Status
The General Fund: Reported total assets of $25,494.49.
Memorial Endowment Fund: Reported total assets of $86,095.38, which includes cash accounts and various stock investments (e.g., AT&T, Mobil Oil Corp).
Tax Concerns: The Board noted a "note of consternation" regarding a dispute with the Town of Hamptonburgh Assessor, who planned to place 18.3 acres of the property back on the tax rolls.
Leadership
President: James K. Sinclaire, Jr. (succeeding Dr. Fred Bement, who stepped down due to relocation).
Vice President: Michael K. Brown.
Treasurer: Frank E. Schuerholz.
Secretary: Dorothy G. Radzinsky.
Assistant Secretary: Mary Ellen Shute.
Memorials & Contributions
The program includes a lengthy list of endowment contributions made in memory of family members. The Board closed the newsletter with an appeal for donations, noting that the costs of maintaining the 1722 Stone House, barn, and grounds consistently exceed their operating income from tours and gifts.
