The weekend of June 24-27, fifty-two Bidwells gathered in Lancaster, PA. We represented twelve states and Canada. The primary purpose of our annual reunions is to renew friendships with our (mostly) distant relatives and to welcome newcomers to our extended family. Anyone who is a member of any Bidwell line, or is descended from, married to, or adopted by a Bidwell is family.
Tours during our weekend together included a scenic train ride through the Pennsylvania “Dutch” country, a visit to the railroad museum of PA, and the National Christmas Center with memorabilia dating from the early 1800’s, a bu tour of the Amish countryside with stops at farms and farm shops, and with a knowledgeable tour guide interpreting the Amish way of life.
Following Saturday’s dinner, BFA members reviewed for the general membership items discussed at Friday morning’s Board meeting.
Highlights included:
1. Progress of the two-volume Bidwell Family History, Revised being prepared for the publishing process hopefully later this year. It contains the known descendants of John Bidwell (died 1687) whose name is on the Founders Monument of Hartford, CT. It also contains the contents of Volume 1, reformatted to readily connect with the newly contributed family data. When it is time to order the book, all persons whose email or postal addresses are known will receive the necessary ordering information.
2. Proposed genealogical DNA testing by male Bidwells to determine how closely related each Bidwell male is to others.
The annual auction climaxed Saturday evening activities, with lively bidding on a variety of handwork, books, collectible coins, edibles, and homemade root beer, etc. (No birdhouses this year) Money from winning bids helps to defray reunion costs not covered by the room and meal expenditures.
Sunday’s event was a day spent touring the Gettysburg Battlefield and area. Our battlefield tour guide/interpreter was exceptionally knowledgeable in explaining the history and poignant sidelights of this part of American History.