Name/Title
148th Annual Bull Picnic August 1, 2015Entry/Object ID
002245Tags
Bull Picnic, William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House AssociationScope and Content
Commemorates the 300th Anniversary of William Bull’s arrival in New York (1715). Key highlights include:
Historical Background: A message from President Todd Vandervort detailing the construction of the Stone House, which took 13 years to complete (1719–1732).
Community Projects: Lyle Shute reports on new nature trails and benches constructed at the homestead through Eagle Scout and Girl Scout Gold Award projects.
Annual Event: An invitation to the 148th Annual Bull Family Reunion and Picnic, held on August 1, 2015.
Philanthropy: A comprehensive list of members, contributors, and associates who participated in the Annual Giving Campaign.
Genealogical Success: The Bull family database surpassed 71,000 names. New research found in the 1903 Year Book of the Holland Society suggests that John Bull (the couple's first child) was baptized in The Highlands, NY, contradicting previous beliefs that all children were baptized in New York City.
Historical Preservation: The Historical Interpretation and Collections Committee is actively scanning a "treasure trove" of files and letters discovered in the Stone House "board room" closet.
Events & Outreach: * The Stone House participated in the NY State "Path Through History" program with public tours on June 20th.
Announcements for the 148th Annual Bull Family Reunion and a dedicated Genealogy/History Day (July 31st).
A change in catering for the annual picnic was noted, as the longtime cook ("Cousin Bill") took a well-deserved break.
Financial Health: The fiscal year (2013-2014) report shows operating income of $15,365 against expenses of $33,289, though this was bolstered by a capital campaign that raised over $18,000.
Recognition: The documents include an extensive list of donors, patrons, and associates, alongside a memorial section honoring family members.
Leadership: A directory of the Board of Directors and Officers (2015-2017) and Honorary Board Members is provided to facilitate contact within the association.
