Revocation of Edict

The Descendants of Marie Ferree Reunion 2009 was held in Lancaster, PA, Thursday, July 30th, Friday, July 31st, and Saturday, August 1st. There was a large attendance from more than ten different states that included "cousins" from the Lefevre and Faulkner branches of the Ferree family and several "first time" attendees. A great time was had by all. Scheduled reunion activities began on Thursday morning with a bus trip to Harrisburg and a tour of the State Capitol. A guide took us through the Senate, House, and Supreme Court chambers while providing descriptions of the magnificant artwork and details of each of the chambers and the lobby. Following lunch in the Capitol cafeteria we again boarded the bus for a visit to the Civil War Museum. We were able to leisurely spend time going through the museum and viewing the various exhibits. Special attention was given to a brick honoring one of our Ferree "cousins" on the Museum's Walk of Honor. A group of sports fans had a treat on Thursday evening when they carpooled to Clipper Magazine Stadium to watch the Lancaster Barnstormers play the New York Bears. The Barnstormers won!

A busy day on Friday started with one of the always popular activities of our Ferree reunions, the Paradise Homestead Bus Tour. First stop was the Lancaster Historical Society Museum to view the Lefevre Bible. Our guide, Mr. Sam Stoltzfus, then took us through what was part of the original Ferree land grant, pointing out the still existing homesteads and sites of some of the early homes while narrating stories and history of each. The tour concluded with a visit to Carpenter's Cemetery.

What would a Ferree reunion be without genealogy? Friday afternoon provided that with a Ferree Forum to share history and research experience. A brief talk was presented by Dr. Charles Heisterkamp, Ferree family genealogist. Discussion groups were formed according to line of descent for the purpose of connecting with others in the same line, exchanging family names, and sharing family stories.

Evening activities began with a social hour followed by a buffet dinner served in the Continental Inn ballroom. After dinner entertainment was provided by Mr. Ed Rech, a Ferree "cousin", who sang and played a melody of songs on the autoharp. Mrs. Donna Jernigan, another Ferree "cousin" gave a presentation about Frank Ellis Ferree known as "The Border Angel" who dedicated his life to helping the poor and needy along the southern Texas border.

We gathered on Saturday for our traditional "indoor picnic" held in the Paradise Township Community Building. There were games, prizes, a display of Civil War artifacts from the collection of Mr. Tom Grove, and a catered lunch. A special presentation was made to Nancy Kosman, Hilda Young, and Treva Axe honoring them as co-founders of the Descendants of Marie Ferree organization.

This monument is located on the grounds near the Paradise Township Community Building.