Name/Title
Land willed for Park by Miss Margaret E Jackson 1969Entry/Object ID
002324Tags
Campbell Hall, Orange County History, Margaret JacksonScope and Content
A newspaper clipping from March 1969, here is a summary of the key events regarding the development of what is now a well-known park in Orange County, New York.
Overview of the Land Proposal
The Orange County Park Commission voted to request that the Board of Supervisors accept a 189-acre farm and a 200-year-old stone house located in Campbell Hall. The property was willed to the county for park purposes by Miss Margaret E. Jackson.
Key Highlights
Park Naming: The commission urged that the entire park area—which would total 647 acres after an additional 48-acre purchase—be named Thomas Bull Memorial Park. While Miss Jackson suggested the name in her will, she did not make it a requirement for the land's acceptance.
Historical Preservation: A special committee, chaired by district school superintendent Mrs. Amy Bull Crist, was formed to evaluate the house's furnishings. The goal was to convert the historic stone house (built by Thomas Bull) into a public museum.
Administration: Commission Chairman Herbert Fabricant announced they were exploring the creation of a board of trustees to manage land, cash, and other gifts through a trust fund, making it easier for residents to contribute to local conservation efforts.
Fast Facts
Detail Description
Location Campbell Hall, NY (Rt. 416)
Total Proposed Size 647 acres
Donor Miss Margaret E. Jackson
Primary Namesake Thomas Bull
Key Officials Graham Skea (Supt.), Herbert Fabricant (Chairman)