New York Family Celebrates 144th Annual Reunion
The Waite family gathered in Mayville, New York for their 144th consecutive reunion, honoring ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. Six family members attended the historic celebration combined with America's 250th birthday festivities.
A New York family just proved that tradition never goes out of style, celebrating their 144th annual reunion while honoring ancestors who helped build America.
The Waite Family Reunion took place on August 2, 2026, in Mayville during the Chautauqua County History Expo celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Six family members gathered to share stories, food, and genealogy connecting them to Revolutionary War heroes.
Family president Helen Burlett led the celebration, joined by her daughter Amanda Burlett Cooley, who traveled all the way from Miami. Secretary and Treasurer Sheila Wassink helped organize the day alongside Loretta and Gene Smith, their daughter Sarah Johnson, and Bonnie Kemp.
The reunion highlighted remarkable ancestors who shaped American history. Reverend William Waite, a Baptist minister and goldsmith from Cambridge, New York, fought in the 1777 Battle of Bennington and lived to age 96. Christopher McManus served at Valley Forge under General George Washington and General Lafayette before settling in Hanover, New York in 1811.
Benjamin Robinson, born in 1704 in Massachusetts, fought at Bunker Hill and the battles of Concord and Lexington. John Pickard served in the New York Militia and survived being held prisoner by Native American Indians before returning home to Ellery Center.
Why This Inspires
In our fast-paced world where family connections often fade with distance and time, the Waite family shows what's possible with dedication. For 144 years across multiple generations, they've gathered annually to remember where they came from and celebrate who they are today.
Their commitment to honoring Revolutionary War ancestors while creating new memories teaches an important lesson. History isn't just dusty textbooks and old battlefields. It's living families who carry forward the values and sacrifices of those who came before them.
The family combined their reunion with the county history expo, surrounded by genealogical societies, artifacts, music, and fellow history lovers. They turned a family gathering into a celebration of community heritage that connected personal stories to America's founding.
Next year's 145th reunion is already scheduled for August 7, 2027, proving this family tradition shows no signs of slowing down.
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This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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