Name/Title
58th Annual Bull Family Picnic, August 29, 1925Entry/Object ID
002154Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House AssociationScope and Content
These documents are pages from a formal letter dated July 1, 1925, addressed to the members of The William Bull and Sarah Wells Family Association, Inc. The letter, sent by Secretary Robert McLeod Jackson, outlines several administrative and financial proposals for the upcoming annual family picnic.Here is a summary of the key points:1. Administrative ChangesMeeting Time: The Board suggests moving the business meeting to 11:00 AM (before lunch) rather than after. This change is intended to free up the afternoon for socializing and to ensure members don't leave before the meeting begins.Board Rotation: The Managers propose amending the By-laws to require at least one new member join the Board each year, rather than unanimously reelecting the same individuals, to encourage fresh participation.2. Financial Challenges and ProposalsThe Association recently acquired the "Stone House" and its 189 acres of farmland, which has introduced new financial burdens.Income vs. Outgo: While the farm land generates between $\$400$ and $\$500$ annually in rent, this barely covers the association's $\$500$ in annual carrying charges (taxes, interest, insurance, and maintenance).Voluntary Contributions: To avoid "compulsory dues" that might alienate family members who fall behind, the Board suggests a resolution for a voluntary annual offering from each member to help cover current expenses and reduce the mortgage.Endowment & Bequests: The Board is encouraging members to include the Association in their wills to establish an endowment fund. Notably, Charles W. Slaughter recently jumpstarted this fund with a donation of his $\$109.33$ New York State Bonus check.3. Current Financial SnapshotCategoryAmountTotal Property Cost ("Stone House")$\$15,500.00$Already Paid in Cash$\$10,800.00$Balance Due (Mortgage at 6% interest)$\$2,200.00$Total Annual Carrying Charges$\$500.00$The letter concludes by asking members to fill out an enclosed ballot and share their views to help guide the Managers in maintaining the historic property.
