Name/Title
The Firtieth Bull Family Picnic The 200 Anniversary of the Marriage of Sarah Wells and Wlliam Bull Wed. August 28, 1918Entry/Object ID
002289Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association, Bull PicnicScope and Content
This image shows a historical program for "The Fiftieth Bull Family Picnic," held on Wednesday, August 28, 1918. The event doubled as a celebration of the 200th anniversary of the marriage of Sarah Wells and William Bull, prominent early settlers of Orange County, New York.
Event Details
Occasion: 50th Family Picnic & 200th Wedding Anniversary.
Date: August 28, 1918.
Printing: Times Publishing Co., New Paltz, N.Y.
Programme Highlights
The event featured a mix of patriotic songs, family history, and formal ceremonies:
Musical Performances: Included "The Star Spangled Banner," "Keep the Home Fires Burning" (a popular WWI-era song), and "God Be With You."
Monument Dedication: A central part of the day was the "Presentation of Monument" by Harry Bull, followed by an "Unveiling" by Sarah Wells Bull and William Bull.
Historical Addresses: A talk titled "Fifty Years of Bull Picnics" was given by Ebenezer Bull of the "Old Stone House" (a reference to the Bull Stone House in Hamptonburgh, NY).
Honor Roll: A section of the program was dedicated to an "Honor Roll," likely acknowledging family members serving in World War I, which was ongoing at the time.
Notable Text & Poetry
Tribute to Sarah Wells: A poem written by Clara Durland Bull in 1912, detailing Sarah’s arrival in Orange County and her marriage to William. It notes his "skilled hand in masonry" and their work building a homestead.
Lyrics: The program includes full lyrics for "The Star Spangled Banner" (four verses) and "God Be With You," alongside a "Liberty Anthem."
The document serves as a genealogical record, highlighting the family's pride in their 18th-century roots and their civic participation during the Great War.