Though the generations wander, the lineage survives and all of us, from dust to dust, we all became forefathers by and by. Dan Fogelburg
September 12-15, 2012
Lancaster/Paradise, Pennsylvania
Paradise 300th Anniversary Celebration
What a great reunion! There were four days of learning about family history, sharing family genealogy, touring historic sites, good fellowship, a parade, and loads of fun. It all began on Wednesday evening with a "meet and greet" in the reunion Welcome Center and a visit from Madame Ferree.
Thursday was Genealogy Day. During the morning session we formed discussion groups according to line of descent to share genealogy with others in the same line. At noon a buffet lunch was served and during the afternoon session we were given the priviledge of viewing the LeFevre Bible.
Daniel Ferree & Anna Maria Leininger Descendants
Isaac LeFevre & Catherine Ferree Descendants
Thomas Faulkner & Mary Ferree Descendants
John Ferree, Mary Musgrave, Ruth Buffington Descendants
Philip Ferree & Leah Dubois Descendants
Ferree Descendants
Our Friday morning "Paradise Historic Site" tour started with a visit to the Hans Herr House where we viewed the historic house and other buildings on the grounds. Our tour continued with a drive through sections of the original Ferree land grant as our guides pointed out different sites of interest. Our second stop was as Carpenter's Cemetery to view the gravesite of Madame Ferree. As we gathered around the tombstone, Shirley Stilgenbauer, portraying Madame Ferree, read a poem written for the occasion and placed a wreath on the grave. Someone began to sing the Huguenot burial hymn and others who were familiar with the hymn joined in. It was a touching moment.
Friday afternoon we were on our way to the Landis Valley Village and Museum where we were able to view a Joel Ferree rifle on display. We were divided into small groups, each with a guide, and were given a tour of the different buildings on the grounds. At one of the buildings we were treated to a "sticky bun" and cider tasting.
Saturday was a fun day! The Paradise Tri-Cen Celebration Committee organized a parade as part of their 300th Anniversary Celebration. The Descendants of Marie Ferree participated with a float built by our good friend, Sam Stoltzfus, a banner, marchers, and a "people mover" for those who did not march. Costumes worn by several added to the festivities. The parade ended at the Paradise Community Park where there were different activities during the day. It was the perfect ending for a great reunion.
Thank you to all who attended our Descendants of Marie Ferree 2012 Reunion.