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The first of our Ferree Family reunions was held in Lancaster and Paradise, PA, on Friday, July 30th and Saturday, July 31, 2004. Several of the attendees began arriving at the Days Inn in Lancaster on Thursday afternoon and that gave some opportunity to get acquainted. There was a busy schedule of reunion activities starting on Friday with morning and afternoon tours that included a visit to the Lancaster Historical Society to view the famous LeFevre Bible, the American Wax Museum where there is a display of Madame Ferree and her children, a drive through the Amish farm country where our ancestors first settled, and a ride on the Strasburg Railroad which runs through land originally owned by the Ferree family. On Friday evening everyone gathered for a buffet dinner. Featured at the dinner were presentations on various topics from the Ferree family history given by Lancaster County residents, some of whom are descendants of Madame Ferree. Adjoining the banquet room an area was set up with displays of artifacts, genealogy information, photos and such. That was very interesting and provided a chance to ask questions of the speakers and share information. On Saturday afternoon the "indoor picnic" was held at the Paradise Community Park. Everyone had been ask to bring a covered dish and an item for a "white elephant" auction. With several participants and a wide variety of items offered, the auction proved to be a lot of fun. Proceeds were used to defray reunion costs. A brief business meeting was held and a decision made to hold another reunion in 2005. From all indication, the two day event appeared to be a great success!
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