Name/Title
123rd Annual Bull Family Picnic - August 18, 1990Entry/Object ID
002220Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association, Bull PicnicScope and Content
This newsletter, titled "Bull-E-Tins," details the preparations and announcements for the 123rd Annual Bull Family Picnic, scheduled for August 18, 1990, at the historic Bull Stone House in Hamptonburgh, New York.
The documents serve as a combination of historical record, financial report, and community bulletin for the descendants of William Bull and Sarah Wells.
Key Events & Announcements
Annual Picnic (August 18, 1990): The event includes a basket lunch, a business meeting to elect four directors, and entertainment such as the Ramapo Fault String Band, horse/pony rides, and organized games for children.
7th Annual Canadian Picnic: A separate reunion was scheduled for August 4, 1990, at the Donald Beyea farm in New Brunswick, Canada.
Sarah Wells' Wedding Dress: The newsletter reports that the dress was taken to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1989 for conservation. An expert recommended removing later-added lace to preserve the original garment, which will eventually be displayed at the Stone House.
Genealogy Updates: Jean Garbe (Genealogist) reports that over 500 family group records were received in the past year, bringing the mailing list to over 4,000 addresses.
Financial & Administrative Data
Fundraising: An "Appeal Response" notes that a December 1989 letter raised over $13,000 from approximately 200 donors to support the upkeep of family properties.
Financial Statement (1988–1989):
Total Income: $13,855.19 (primarily from interest and contributions).
Total Expenses: $18,861.37 (largely driven by $8,302 in operations and $5,943 in restoration costs).
Leadership: James K. Sinclaire Jr. served as President, with Richard G. Ivory as Secretary.
Community & Heritage
Memorial Contributions: A significant portion of the newsletter lists dozens of "Memorial Contributions" made by family members in honor of deceased relatives.
Historic Milestones: The 1989 picnic recognized unique attendees, including the youngest (Alexander Paddock, born April 1989), the oldest (Russell Hallock, 92), and the couple married the longest (Mr. & Mrs. Harry Earl, 63 years).
The Bull Stone House: Built in 1722, the house remains the focal point of the family's heritage. The newsletter includes a hand-drawn map to help "cousins" find the property near Goshen, NY.
