Newsletter of the Society of Descendants in the State of Florida

The Mayflower Chartered 31 July 1937 by Dr. Jeremy Dupertuis Bangs Director, American Pilgrim Museum Leiden, Netherlands Copyright (c) 2011-2016 J. D. Bangs. Vol. 41 No. 1 Spring 2016 Richard S. Wheeler, Editor All rights reserved. Used with Dr. Bangs’ written permission.

GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE

Dear Fellow Florida Members:

It sure looks like Spring has arrived in Florida – the snowbirds are heading north and we are preparing for an influx of family visits. Kathleen and I have had the privilege of visiting & speaking to several colonies since we last talked with you. We visited the Colony in Daytona Beach in February. We were hosted by Vice Colony Governor Ruth Ann Fay and had a great time visiting with our cousins. See photo on pg. 9. Just recently (April) we had the honor and privilege to visit the Colony in Palm Beach Gardens and were hosted by Colony Treasurer David Kuschel and past State Governor Governor Kenneth E. Carter George Allerton. See photo on pg. 9. On Friday night we were invited to dine with David and George and were joined by Florence Kuschel – another great <><> IN THIIS ISSUE <><> time. They really know how to host and make a State Governor feel welcome. Governor’s Message 1 & 9 Our Spring BOA meeting was held on Saturday 23 April in Tampa (see report Membership Changes 2-4 elsewhere in this issue). 2015 Year-End Membership 4

We attended a meeting of the Colony on 30 April to honor our News from our Colonies 4-9 Governor General, Lea Filson – we had a great time! Pilgrim Peter Brown Society 7

The Cry of A Stone 10 FSMD members, please make sure you inform your Colony Secretary of any changes of address, telephone numbers, e-mail address – keep them up-to- 2016 Annual Meeting 11 date. Colony secretaries make sure you inform State Secretary Jessie Brab- GG Filson Visits Florida 11-12 ham ([email protected]) and State Webmaster, Ron Dailey Spring BoA Meeting 13-15 ([email protected]) on all changes. Colony Junior Membership Chairs, when a Junior Member reaches maturity (prior to age 25) and wishes 2016 Scholarship Winners 14 to become a regular member of our Society, please notify State Junior Mem- Legal “Stuff” from Editor 16 bership Chair Ruth Schlabach ([email protected]) – she will in turn Membership Info Changes 16 notify the necessary parties. (continued on pg. 9)

The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 1

“All natural persons over eighteen (18) years of age who can prove to FSMD’s and GSMD’s satisfaction that they are descended from a passenger on the Mayflower on the voyage which terminated at Plymouth, New England, in December 1620 shall be eligible for Regular Membership pursuant to Section 3 of this Article IV.” Article IV, Sec- tion 1, FSMD Constitution & By-Laws

MEMBERSHIP CHANGES (from 1 Dec 2015 through 30 Apr 2016)

NEW MEMBERS Name Location Gen/FL #s Ancestor Colony Sallie Anne Van Epps Sautz The Villages 89135/5185 William Brewster Chilton Beverly Louise Davis Barrett Kissimmee 89186/5188 Henry Samson E. Fuller Gordon Duane Hayduk Edgewater 89185/5189 William Brewster Cooke Nancy Elizabeth Whittemore Venice 89187/5190 William White Tilley Richard Lee Teed San Jose, CA 89247/5191 William Bradford Standish Ralph Burton Abrames III Palm City 89248/5192 Myles Standish Alden Cynthia Alice Cook Lyster Naples 89273/5193 William Brewster Standish Michael Dale Lyster Naples 89274/5194 Standish Caryn Smith Pottucek Palmetto Bay 89295/5196 Francis Cook Brewster Janice Eilzabeth Davy Harff Hallandale Beach 89064/5182 John Alden Brewster Shaye Ellen Bureau Ocala 89399/5206 John Alden Mullins Linda Anne Dunham Tampa 89436/5207 William Brewster Bradford Gary Morton Dunham Rio Vista, CA 89435/5208 William Brewster Bradford Cheryl Irene Phillips Atwell Port Orange 89467/5209 Stephen Hopkins Cooke Kaye Laraine Henry Bolt Stuart 89468/5210 Allerton Katherine Elizabeth Gray Lopus Windermere 89469/5211 John Alden Standish Grace Spencer (Welles) Knight Coconut Grove 89505/5212 Stephen Hopkins Brewster Andrea Rhodes LaPlante Largo 89311/5199 Isaac Allerton Bradford Sylvia Holmes West The Villages 89312/5200 Stephen Hopkins Chilton Blanche Lenora Aldrich Wheatley Lakeland 89313/5201 John Tilley E. Fuller Dawn Talbot Munroe Johnson Dundee 89334/5202 William White E. Fuller Lois Jackson Patton The Villages 89335/5203 Priscilla Mullins Chilton David Parker Gibbs Jr. Tampa 89344/5205 William Bradford Bradford Marcea Lynne Hall Oetting Orlando 89636/5214 William Brewster Howland Erin Lynne Longstreet Philadelphia, PA 89655/5216 William Brewster Standish Calvin Kenneth Cushman Vero Beach 89652/5217 Isaac Allerton Hopkins Joan Kip Fencil Irwin The Villages 89748/5220 Edward Fuller Chilton Janis Elaine Hansen Eastham, MA 89747/5221 William Brewster Standish Mary Ann Close Timm Palm City 89750/5222 john Alden Alden Toni Leigh Sullivan Avon Park 89749/5223 William Mullins E. Fuller Richard John Culver Indian Shores 89763/5225 Francis Cooke E. Fuller Juli-Ann Ormsby New Port Richey 89764/5226 Henry Samson Bradford Ann Beth Shunk Roberts Ocala 89765.5227 Mullins Valerie Ann Mercer Smith Crestview 89766/5228 George Soule Brewster Cathay Denise Abreu Miami 89778/5229 Francis Cooke Brewster Barbara Greene Terhune Titusville 89780/5230 William Bradford Cooke Paul Lee Brady Holiday 89779/5231 John Alden Bradford

TRANSFERS IN/OUT James Glenn Brown The Villages 53853/5183 Edward Fuller Chilton TRANSFER IN FROM ME Alison Van Swearingen The Villages 42598/5184 John Alden Chilton TRANSFER IN FROM ME The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 2

TRANSFERS IN/OUT Jana-lee (Beggs) Blair North Port 88924/5186 John Howland Tilley TRANSFER IN FROM NJ Caroline Kennedy Morrison Sorg Marathon 56106/5187 Myles Standish Brewster TRANSFER IN FROM NJ Alyssa Grace Langgood Ponte Vedra Beach 88500/5204 Warren TRANSFER IN FROM NC Brian Richard McWaters Rockledge 85183/5195 John Alden Hopkins TRANSFER IN FROM OK John Henry Adair Weeki Wachee 86187/5197 William Brewster Bradford TRANSFER IN FROM GA Thomas Floyd Chapin The Villages 83675/5198 William Brewster Chilton TRANSFER IN FROM MD Elizabeth Bacon (Duncan) Modys Ft. Myers 43752/5213 Samson TRANSFER IN FROM KY Bruce Seldon Basler Naples 71969/5215 Stephen Hopkins Standish TRANSFER IN FROM MA Barbara Gardner Jackson Palladino Boca Raton 79958/5224 Stephen Hopkins Alden TRANSFER IN FROM PA

REINSTATEMENTS Jamie C. Wellman Rodale 72684/3996 Henry Samson Warren Lee Alan Peterson 76598/4238 Myles Standish Bradford Jane Ruth McCulloch 60483/4067 Myles Standish Allerton Laura Elizabeth Miller 80898/4571 Myles Standish Allerton Kathryn Lynn Weston Miller 78148/4360 Myles Standish Allerton Barbara Dawn Cromartie 82872/4713 Stephen Hopkins Brewster William Delavan Baldwin 17870/132 Edward Fuller Warren

SUPPLEMENTALS Wendy Sue Lary 88157/5129 Standish Susanna Pollock Hough 71880/4649 Richard Warren Mullins Karen Dale (Replogle) Kovarik 88154/5126 Francis Cooke Brewster Jacquelyn Loraine Arsenault 82951/4725 Warren & Doty Howland Charles Carter Morgan 87089/5052 Alden & Mullins Samson Jack Hailman 73027/4019 Isaac Allerton Allerton Diane Jean Lambert Strickler 87769/5102 William Mullins Tilley Herbert Anthony Waldron 85814/4946 Edward Fuller E. Fuller Barbara Lorraine Blakely Page 66138/3542 John Tilley Doty Jana-Lee (Beggs) Blair 88924/5186 Eliz. Tilley, John Tilley Tilley, Joan Hurst Tilley

RESIGNED IN GOOD STANDING Sharon Yvonne Summers 77564/4322 John Alden Winslow Lindi Renee Sotaski 87478/5076 John Howland Bradford Robert Alan Cronenwett 70530/3839 Francis Cooke Hopkins Elizabeth Ann (Harris) Otis 71628/3928 John Howland Tilley

IN MEMORIAM Name Date of Death Gen/FL #s Ancestor Colony Connie Sue Rayl 6 Dec 2014 81382/4611 Edward Fuller Warren Frances Pixley Cruikshank 3 Aug 2015 65112/3472 Stephen Hopkins Tilley

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IN MEMORIAM Penny Ruth Langford Bonnema 13 Dec 2015 68888/3709 Thomas Rogers Samson Ruth Irene (Petteys) Muir 26 Dec 2015 88706/5156 Francis Cooke Chilton Margaret (Bonny) Jane Stover 12 Dec 2015 40134/2863 John Howland Tilley FL LIFE #85 Burton Robison Corbus Jr. 20 Dec 2015 78939/4407 Howland, Alden, Tilley Mullins, E. Fuller, Tilley, Rogers Robert George Maas 14 Jun 2015 75657/4189 John Alden Bradford Jack Parker Hailman 20 Jan 2016 73027/4019 John Alden, Henry Allerton Samson, Myles Standish Donald Allen Randolph 10 Mar 2016 55454/2954 Francis Cooke & Brewster Richard Warren Richard McCallum Geir 31 Mar 2016 86963/5045 John Alden Samson Rev. Carl Andrew Nissen Jr. 17 Jul 2015 33125/3097 Edward Doty Tilley

2015 YEAR-END MEMBERSHIP COUNT

ecretary Jessie Brabham reports that FSMD closed 2015 with 1,338 members distributed among its 16 colonies as follows: S ALDEN 69 HOPKINS 59 ALLERTON 112 HOWLAND 77 BRADFORD 176 MULLINS 107 BREWSTER 72 SAMSON 62 CHILTON 95 STANDISH 130 COOKE 73 TILLEY 110 DOTY 38 WARREN 62 E. FULLER 61 WINSLOW 35

The membership count as of the last day of the year is the basis for the per capita national dues assessment which FSMD owes GSMD each year.

<><><><><> NEWS FROM ACROSS THE SUNSHINE STATE - OUR COLONIES IN ACTION <><><><><>

JAMES CHILTON COLONY

he regular Winter meeting of the James Chilton Colony was held on Saturday 16 Jan 2016 at the Churchill Street Recreation Center in The Villages. The meeting was called to order at 11:10am by colony governor T Marcia Dalkalitsis, who welcomed members and guests. The invocation was given by Ken Carter, colony treasurer and FSMD Governor. Ruth Wible, Board of Advisors, led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Scrib Kelly, past colony governor, led us in the Pledge to the Mayflower Flag. Tom Herrick, Board of Advisors, read The . Shirley Smith, Vice Governor and Historian, and colony governor Dalkalitsis gave a special welcome to the new members who joined the colony in 2015 and so far in 2016.

Ken Carter led a Memorial Service for Ruth Muir, a recent new member in September 2015 who died in December 2015 at the age of 93. Historian Shirley Smith then gave a tribute to Ruth.

Secretary Barb Bateman announced the minutes of the March meeting were in the Chilton Chatter and available for anyone who did not get them. Minutes of the March 28, 2015 meeting were accepted. Treasurer Ken Carter reported on income and disbursements, also the balance on hand as of December 31, 2015. Scrib Kelly reported on the Newsletter, Pink Books and Pens. To defray the costs, the Pink Books and a Pen were selling for $1.00. There was a recess at 11:45am for a lunch, prepared by TooJays. The meeting reconvened at 12:25pm. The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 4

A Special Certificate of Recognition was presented by Marcia Dalkalitsis to non-member Shirley Koons for her steadfast loyalty to Florence Porter, who she brings to every colony meeting. Ruth Schlabach, Colony and State Junior Membership Chair, reported a total of 1028 junior members in the state, and 75 in the Chilton Colony. She also stated, the cost to enroll a Junior Member is $30.00. Junior Members “age out” at 25 years old. Junior mem- bers Julia and Katherine Schlabach spoke about their project. They are visiting all the colonies in the state, inform- ing them of the Junior Membership program.

Shirley Smith, Vice Governor and Historian, stated we now have 96 members in our Colony. A workshop was held in May 2015 at the Pinellas Library where 37 people attended. We have 14 prospective members awaiting approv- al. Ken Carter reported on a project that State Historian Muriel Cushing and Colony member Bev Hulett are work- ing on. It is a Patriot to Pilgrim “Bridge Project.” They are collecting names of DAR Patriots and trying to trace them to Mayflower Pilgrims. Ken also reported that a collection of the “Silver Books” has been bought by the Col- ony. These reference books will be used by our Historian. (information for this article furnished by colony secre- tary Barb Bateman)

EDWARD DOTY COLONY

he members gathered on Saturday 13 Feb 2016 at the Genealogy Library. Meeting here is most beneficial because not only is a room provided but members have the additional opportunity, if they so wish, to T choose to stay and do further re- search.

Our February meeting is always held on the second Saturday of February, so once again it permitted us to don red garments. Every- one enjoyed the Valentine spread: large red and pink glazed petit fours, a variety of mini cheese cakes, chocolate covered pretzels and crackers served with a dill and feta cheese dip. No need to go overboard on Val- entine’s Day; there were enough treats to satisfy any cravings. Business is our main focus during the first meeting of the year. Discussions took place covering: finances, audits, book donations, and a key area of interest at this meeting is the need to be- come active in seeking out those who may have Mayflower ancestors. How fortuitous that just before the meeting began a woman Front Row seated L – R: Mary Roethlisberger, Bunny Halligan Patricia walked in. Being a regular at the library, she Crumly had mistaken the meeting to be a genealogy one. After being informed that this was a Middle Row L-R: Bill Roethlisberger, Barbara Page, Ellen Addison, Becky meeting of Mayflower descendants, she Richardson, Helen Correll, Barbara Boster, Debra Hendron, Genevieve claimed to have several Mayflower ances- Tavares tors. At this time she was invited to stay. After the meeting she met with our historian Back Row L-R: Jack Halligan, Jim Richardson, Ward Correll, Peter Tavares who explained what was required for mem- bership. As always the meeting was followed by the photo op. The lady in the photo wearing turquoise was the walk-in. Lesson: One never knows who may walk through the door. It may be a relative. Bunny Halligan won the door prize, a white coffee cup with big red hearts. I hear tell she sips coffee while looking at her brother’s emails of photos showing the deep snow covering his front lawn in VA. Brrrrr (article and photo courtesy of colony gover- nor Patricia Crumly)

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HENRY SAMSON COLONY

embers and guests of the Henry Samson Colony gathered in Fort Myers on 20 Jan 2016 for their Win- ter lunch and program. The meeting was called to order by col- M ony governor Ellen Full, who welcomed all in attendance. The invocation was given by colony elder Bill Cox. The pledge to the American Flag was led by Ren Cushing, immediate past FSMD governor, current GSMD Captain General and a Samson Colony member. The Pilgrim’s Pledge was read by colony secretary Mary Keiser and The Mayflower Compact was read by colony cap- tain Albert Myers.

After lunch, program chair Constance Litzak introduced the guest speaker, Ren Cushing, who spoke on the topic “If you were a Colo- nist, the Road to Revolution.” His talk was Colony elder Bill Cox illustrated with slides with his wife, FSMD Colony governor Ellen Full DGG & Historian and Sam- son Colony member Muriel Cushing, assisting at the projec- tor.

GOVERNOR WILLIAM BRADFORD COLONY

he Governor William Bradford Colony met on Sat- urday 6 Feb 2016 at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club T with 46 members and guests attending. Colony Governor Laura Brock introduced three new members: Rebecca Ann Bandy, a transfer from Edward Fuller Colony; Andrea LaPlante, a descendant of Isaac Allerton; and David Gibbs, a descendant of William Bradford. She also intro-

GSMD Captain General Reynolds P. Cushing

duced a new junior member Meghan McGoldrick, a descendant of John Alden and daughter of colony cap- tain Theresa McGoldrick.

Colony Vice Governor Helen Bennett introduced the guest speaker Dr. Peter E. Waldron, fellow colony member, international political consultant and hu- manitarian, who spoke on his Mayflower passenger Left to right are Rebecca A. Bandy, new junior member ancestor Stephen Hopkins, a lover of liberty and the Meghan McGoldrick with her mother Theresa McGol- New World’s first patriot. Hopkins proved valuable to drick, Andrea LaPlante, and David Gibbs, Colony governor Plymouth colonists for his previous experience in the Laura Brock is at the podium. (photo courtesy of colony New World. In 1609 he set sail for Jamestown, Virgin- vice governor and FSMD Captain Helen O. Bennett) ia, on The Sea-Venture, The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 6

which was caught in a storm and was forced to land in Bermuda. Stephen wanted to start an independent settlement in Bermuda, so he was arrested for mutiny and sen- tenced to death, but his life was spared. He sailed for Jamestown arriving during their starving time. Hopkins stayed four years until he heard that his wife died, prompting him to return to England. In 1620 Separatists wanted Stephen Hopkins to go with them. He brought his entire family and servants on to the Mayflower. He and his family cared for the sick and dying. Hopkins opened his house to , who taught the settlers how to plant and fish. He served Plymouth until his death in 1641.

(article furnished courtesy of colony secretary/treasurer Elizabeth H. Werner)

ELIZABETH TILLEY COLONY

ormer FSMD Governor Margaret (Bonny) Harris Stover, age 87, passed away on December 12, 2015, in Cedarburg, WI. Bonny, formerly of Port Charlotte, FL, F was a member of the Wisconsin Mayflower Society since 1976 and a Life Mem- ber of the Florida Mayflower Society. She was descended from Pilgrims John Howland and John Tilley. She served the Wisconsin Society as Historian between 1983 and 1990. After retirement, she served the Colony of the Florida Society as Histo- rian and two terms as Colony Governor (1996-1999 and 2002-2005). Dr. Peter E. Waldron

She served the Florida State Society as Secretary (1993-1999), Governor (1999-2002), Assistant General (2002- 2005), Deputy Governor General (2005-2008) and GSMD Junior Member Chair (2005-2008). As a former certified genealogist, Bonny was involved with the research of the Five Generation Project of the General Society since 1982. She was a member of numerous heritage societies and held offices in several of them.

Bonny is survived by daughters Jane Leske of West Bend, WI; Joann Stover of Duluth, MN; and Linda Stover of Ce- darburg, WI; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Bonny was a treasure to all who knew her and her loss will be deeply felt.

CALLING ALL DESCENDANTS OF PILGRIM PETER BROWN

he Pilgrim Peter Brown Society (PPBS) was formed in Plymouth, MA, during the 41st Triennial General Congress of GSMD in September 2014. All de- T scendants of Peter Brown are cordially invited to apply for membership. Please visit its website at www.pilgrimpeterbrownsociety.org to read its first News- letter and download a membership application. Elizabeth H. Werner, secretary/ treasurer of the Governor William Bradford Colony, is the inaugural Corresponding Secretary of PPBS.

EDWARD WINSLOW COLONY

n November 2015, Bob and Vicki Spooner, from the Colony in Tallahassee presented a pro- gram on the Pilgrims and the First Thanksgiving to the 4th grade classes at North Florida Christian School. I Beside the Mayflower Essay Contest, those who were interested also participated in the Mayflower Poster Contest.

The winning posters were hung at the Leon County Library during the month of January 2016. Cash prices and rib- bons were presented to the winners of both contests during February 2016.

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The winners of the essay contest were: 1st place - Jordan Craw- ford, 2nd place - Drew Cleckner, 3rd place - Kamari Johnson, and Honorable Mention - Avery Baker and Sierra Albaugh. The winners of the poster contest were: 1st place - Hannah Hercule (photo at right), 2nd place - Drew Cleckner, 3rd place - Abby Hotbert, and Honorable Mention - John Patrick Pickles and Riley Shulla.

Because many essays and posters were exceptional, a book called, Sarah Morton's Day, A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl, was present- ed to the 4th grade classes for students reading.

(article & photo courtesy of Vicki Spooner)

JAMES CHILTON COLONY

rizzling rain in the morning and overcast skies at midday did not dampen the spirits of the thirty-some- odd members and guests of the James Chilton Colony who met on Saturday 2 Apr 2016 at the picnic D grounds of the Del Webb Spruce Creek Community in Summerfield, FL, for the colony’s 5th annual pic-

nic. Former colony governor Scrib Kelly again served as grillmaster par excellence and prepared hotdogs and ham- burgers with just the right amount of char.

The meeting was called to order by colony governor Marcia Dalkalitsis, who welcomed members and guests. The invocation was given by Ken Carter, colony treasurer and FSMD Governor. Jim Roorbach, colony captain, led the Pledge of Allegiance and Salute to the Mayflower Society flag. Colony vice governor Shirley Smith read the ances- tors’ roll call.

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Secretary Barb Bateman announced that the minutes of the January meeting were in the Chilton Chatter and available for anyone who did not get them. Those minutes were accepted as published. Treasurer Ken Carter reported on income and dis- bursements and the balance of funds on hand. His- torian Shirley Smith reported that with the new members and transfers in who had been approved since the first of the year the colony now has more than 100 members. Colony governor Marcia Dalkalitsis presented bookmarks and pens to those new members in attendance. The 100th member is Richard Wheeler, FSMD Counsellor and newsletter editor, a transfer in from the Richard Warren Colo- ny.

L to R: Colony vice governor and historian Shirley Smith, The program was given by Ken Carter who spoke Richard Wheeler, and colony governor Marcia Dalkalitsis, with the about Squanto, the Patuxet Native American who cake celebrating the colony’s membership milestone. helped the Pilgrims recover from their extremely hard first winter of 1620-21 by teaching them the native method of cultivating maize, which involved burying local fish in the soil to fertilize the seed corn. Carter’s presentation was both informative and entertaining.

GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE (continued from pg. 1)

REMEMBER: The 79th Annual Florida State Meeting will be held in Fort Myers and hosted by the Henry Samson Colo- ny on Friday & Saturday 18-19 November – look for addi- tional information elsewhere in this issue of The Florida Pilgrim. Our guest speaker will be Dr. Peter Waldron, a member of the Florida Society of Mayflower Descendants, Sons of the American Revolution, and the Jamestowne So- ciety. He will be speaking about his ancestor, Stephen Hop- kins. Dr. Waldron has worked since 1969 as a consultant to multi-international corporations throughout South Asia, the Middle East, and Sub-Sahara Africa. He has served as a L to R: Kathleen Carter, FSMD Governor Ken Carter and Cooke Colony vice governor Ruth Ann Fay

faith-based consultant to political candidates for the Office of President, United States Senate and House of Representatives. His career includes significant time in the entertainment and news industries, including print, radio and TV.

Thank you for your continued support and we look for- ward to our future colony visits! L to R: former FSMD Governor George Allerton, Tracey Ken Allerton, FSMD Governor Ken Carter, Allerton Colony treasurer David Kuschel and Allerton Colony governor Ken Carter Nelson Rhodes FSMD Governor

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THE CRY OF A STONE

Rare 1600’s Treatise by Pilgrim is Published by General Society of Mayflower Descendants

Written by a Scrooby Separatist shortly before the Mayflower sailed, The Cry of a Stone reveals religious tolerance unknown among the Anglican Church or Strict Separatists.

Revealing new information on the Mayflower Pilgrim Separatists, The Cry of a Stone by Robert Cushman, has been published by the General Society of May- flower Descendants. Robert Cushman, a leader in the Scrooby Separatist group, wrote the pamphlet a few months before the Mayflower sailed in 1620, but it was not published in England until 1642, well after his death and under the name Coachman. Because of the variation in his name, it wasn’t identified as a Pilgrim writing until the mid-twentieth century. Cushman was a leader in the Mayflower Pilgrim con- gregation, and coordinated the trip to America and the plan for the New England settlement. In The Cry of a Stone, he wrote in a clear and concise manner the reasons why the Leiden Pilgrims separated from the Church of England.

The treatise sheds new light on how tolerant the moderate Mayflower Pilgrims were compared to other radical and strict Separatist movements. “The Separatists knew that their beliefs would conflict with other people’s consciences and they did not force anyone to conform,” said noted Pilgrim histori- an James W. Baker, transcriber and annotator of the book. “For that they deserve our admiration and un- derstanding, not intolerance for failing to meet twenty-first century standards.” Cushman was una- ble to sail on the Mayflower because of illness, but in 1621, traveled to America on the Fortune with his son Thomas. A few years later he returned to London and died in 1625, probably of the plague.

“Publishing The Cry of a Stone in partnership with its Editor, Michael R. Paulick, fulfills GSMD’s education mission that encourages bringing new scholarship to the study of the Pilgrim Separatists,” said Lea Sinclair Filson, GSMD Governor General. “Hopefully, more academic study and review will follow the publication of this important and rare treatise.”

To Purchase the Book:

Title: The Cry of a Stone: A Treatise Showing What is Right Matter, Form and Government of the Visible Church of Christ Author: Robert Cushman; transcribed and annotated by James W. Baker Cost: $30; discounted editions available to GSMD members and libraries Online Orders: Visit TheMayflowerSociety.org (Shop – Pilgrim Books) Phone Orders: 508.746.5058

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2016 ANNUAL MEETING he 79th anniversary annual meeting of FSMD will be held on 18-19 November 2016 in Fort Myers, hosted by the Henry Samson Colony. Friday night’s banquet T and Saturday morning’s BoA and general membership meeting will be held in the Lee Ballroom of the Hilton Garden Inn, 16410 Corporate Commerce Way, Fort Myers, Florida 33913. Lodgings will be available at a special discounted rate at the Hilton Garden Inn and at the adjacent Homewood Suites. A total of 5 Single King Bedrooms and 15 Dou- ble Queen Bedrooms are available at the Hilton Garden Inn for the night of November 18th at a discounted rate of $119.00 (including breakfast for up to two guests). A total of 20 Single King Suites are available at the next-door Homewood Suites at a discounted rate of $109.00 (no break- fast) on the same date. For registration forms and more information, contact Samson Colony treasurer Anne McGuire, 1417 SW 52nd Terrace, Cape Coral, FL 33914-7416, email [email protected], phone (239) 542-0068.

GOVERNOR GENERAL LEA SINCLAIR FILSON VISITS FLORIDA

SMD Governor General Lea Sinclair Filson visited the Florida Society on Friday & Saturday 29-30 April, hosted by the Myles Standish Colony in Naples. Friday night, Standish Board Members and others attend- G ed a cocktail reception for GG Filson at the home of colony vice governor Nancy Ratner and her hus- band Barry in Naples – there were about 25 people in attendance.

The Saturday meeting of the Standish Colony was held at The Moorings in Naples – about 80 mem- bers, officers and friends were in attendance. A beautiful room to meet in and a delicious meal was provided.

FSMD Governor Kenneth E. Carter and his wife Kathleen and son Ste- ven; GSMD Captain General, AG and immediate past FSMD Governor Reynolds P. Cushing and his wife FSMD DGG and Historian Muriel C. Cushing; and past DGG, AG, FSMD Governor & Standish Colony Governor Fran Lopus joined in celebrating the visit of Governor General Filson.

After the Standish meeting, GG Fil- son spoke to the group about what is happening in Plymouth and the Gen- eral Society – it was very interesting and was well received.

In the photo at left, Captain General Ren Cushing, Governor General Lea Filson, former FSMD Governor Fran Lopus and current FSMD Governor Ken Carter

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In the photo at right, GG Filson presented her “Governor General’s Meritorious Service Award” to FSMD Governor Ken Carter “for Extraordinary Work with the Florida Mayflower Society - Given in grateful appreciation for his dedication, outstanding achievement, and exception- al leadership for the betterment of GSMD.”

FSMD Governor Carter presented GG Filson with a beautiful hand-crafted box with the Mayflower embroidered on the top – inside was a check for $1,620 representing FSMD’s 2016 donation to the Governor General’s 1620 Fund to support GSMD’s ongoing activ- ities. Immediately following this presenta- tion, Standish Colony governor Don Cahill presented GG Filson a check for $1,620 as the donation from the Myles Standish Colo- ny to the GG’s 1620 Fund.

GG Filson and Standish Colony governor Cahill

FSMD Governor Carter presented a $1,500 scholarship check to Alexander James Stetson from Bonita Springs, recipient of one of the two FSMD scholarships awarded this year. See pg 14 for more details.

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SPRING BoA MEETING

he Spring meeting of FSMD’s governing body, the Board of Assistants (“BoA”), was T held on Saturday 23 Apr 2016 at the Holi- day Inn Express Tampa North in Temple Terrace, FL. All 8 state officers were present, as well as the DGG, AG, immediate past state governor, all 3 members-at-large and 14 of the 16 colony gover- nors or their delegates. The meeting was called to order promptly at 9am by FSMD Governor Ken Carter. The invocation was given by Elder Suzanne Adams and the Pledge of Allegiance to the US flag and the salute to the Mayflower Society flag were led by Captain Helen Bennett. Secretary Jessie Brabham called the roll and declared the presence of a quorum.

Minutes of the BoA’s meeting on 21 Nov 2015 had been emailed to all BoA members in advance, and FSMD Deputy Governor Jim Preston listens a motion was made, seconded and carried to ac- as FSMD Governor Ken Carter presides at the podium cept those minutes as distributed.

Officers’ reports followed. Secretary Brabham reported that FSMD had 1335 members as of 31 Mar 2016. Historian Muriel Cushing reported that, since the beginning of the year, we’ve had 30 new members approved, 11 transfers in from other state societies and 14 supplementals. We currently have 48 applications pending at GSMD in Plymouth. Elder Suzanne Adams reported that 12 members have died since the 2015 annual meeting. Treasurer Hank Dressel reported on FSMD’s assets on hand as well as revenues and expenses as of 15 Apr 2016. For privacy reasons, finan- cial details are not published in this newsletter but FSMD’s finances are strong and any member in good standing may request a copy of the Treasurer’s Report by emailing Hank Dressel at [email protected].

FSMD Counsellor Richard Wheeler discussed what he’s found to be a misunderstanding by many members (especially colony officers) as to FSMD’s tax status. FSMD is recognized by the IRS as a Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and is listed on the IRS’s Exempt Organizations Business Master File Extract. None of FSMD’s colonies are so listed. There are 3 consequences to its 501(c)(3) status: (1) FSMD is not subject to Federal income tax on its annual receipts; (2) amounts paid to FSMD (including members’ dues) are tax-deductible for Federal income tax purposes by the individual payors; and (3) FSMD is recognized by the FL Department of Revenue (“DOR”) as exempt from Florida sales and use taxes. A Consumer’s Certificate of Exemption has been issued to FSMD by DOR covering the period from 29 Feb 2016 to 28 Feb 2021. On its face this Certificate explains that it “is to be used solely by your organization for your organization’s customary nonprofit activities.” Regulations issued by DOR explain further that this means the only purchases which are exempt are those made the organization named on the Certificate (i.e., FSMD) with its own funds for its tax-exempt purposes. Wheeler explained that most if not all colony officers mistak- enly believe that their colonies qualify for Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status of their own under the so-called “umbrella” of FSMD’s Section 501(c)(3) status and that their colonies are free to use FSMD’s FL sales/use tax ex- emption certificate for their own colony’s purchases. Wheeler stated that, in his opinion, colonies’ unfettered use of FSMD’s exemption certificate runs the risk that DOR will revoke that certificate. Accordingly, he made the follow- ing motion: “I move that the BoA adopt as an official policy of FSMD that no one but the State Treasurer is author- ized to use FSMD’s Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales Tax Exemption to avoid the payment of Flori- da Sales Tax.” After much discussion, the motion passed 17-3 on a show-of-hands vote. Colonies wishing to obtain a FL sales tax exemption certificate in their own name must first apply for and receive a favorable IRS determination letter as to their own Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 13

Committee reports followed. Bradford Colony governor Laura Sharpe Brock reported as chair of the Scholarship Committee (consisting of Adrienne Condon, Clara Waterman Powell and Alvene Watson) as follows:

It appears that increasing our number to 2 scholarships of $1500 did not draw more applications as we had hoped. In fact, we had 7 in 2015 and 6 this year. The quality remains high which makes our presenting these scholarships valuable. Let me tell you about our 2016 winners!

ALEXANDER JAMES STETSON was sponsored by his sister, Kristyn Stetson, a college student and member of the Myles Standish Colony. They are descendants of John Alden. He lives in Bonita Springs. Alex- ander is ranked #8 out of 508 students at Gulf Coast High School in Naples taking Advanced Placement and Honors classes. He has earned the AP Scholar (with honors) and the 2015 Sunshine State Scholars Award. In addition, Alexander is a very active member of the Marching Band, the Math Competition Club (Mu Alpha Theta) and STEM Club of which he is a founding member. Most notable is his pioneering of the “Reading to Rabbits” program at the Gargiulo Education Center – an after-school learning opportunity program for 65 students from migrant farm worker families in North Naples. Many of these students are performing below grade level and their parents cannot speak English or read in any language. Alex works in the Center once a week with his English Lop-Eared Rabbits … rabbits he has trained since birth to sit calmly with different individuals for long periods of time. Throughout the afternoon, the students meet with him and his rabbits to read their books. In addition to creating a new and exciting environment around the act of reading itself, the low-pressure environment allows them to read to a furry friend who will not judge their reading ability. He has trained younger high school students to take over when he goes to college. Alex plans to attend Georgia Tech, with the intention to study computer science and become a software developer.

LINDSAY ELIZABETH PETERSON was sponsored by her grandmother, Kay Peterson, a member of the Gov. William Bradford Colony. She is a descendant of Myles Standish and lives in Tampa. In the years Lindsay has worked with the Tampa Bay History Center as a camp counselor and during their special event programming, she repeatedly volun- teered to be in the thick of things as a facilitator of kid’s crafts, games, set-up, tear-down and even prep in the days prior. Lindsay has a 3.87 GPA in the Robinson High School International Baccalaureate Program. She is the Flute Sec- tion Leader in the school band and earned First Chair in the Florida All-State Honor Band. She is President of the French Club and the Marine Biology Club which foretells her desire to attend Georgia Tech in Atlanta, majoring in environmen- tal engineering and minoring in French. Her career goal is to become an environmental engineer.

The BoA approved the Scholarship Committee’s report and recommendation and voted to award a $1,500 scholarship to Alexander and a $1,500 scholarship to Lindsay.

The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 14

Under new business, the BoA approved the petition which had been filed last November by 14 members of the Al- lerton Colony for the chartering of a new colony in the Town of Palm Beach to be called the COLO- NY. There were 22 votes in favor and 2 votes opposed to the motion. The Organizing Colony Governor is Annette Geddes, a former Governor of the New York Mayflower Society. She is circulating a draft of proposed colony bylaws and arranging for the opening of a colony bank account in advance of the scheduling of a Charter Meeting of the new colony.

A motion was made, seconded and carried that FSMD Governor Ken Carter be appointed Acting AG to attend the GSMD General Board of Assistants meeting in September 2016 in Indianapolis. FSMD’s AG is immediate past State Governor Ren Cushing, who is already a voting member of the GBoA as GSMD’s Captain General. The temporary ap- pointment of Carter means that FSMD does not lose its AG vote at the GBoA meeting.

GSMD has very detailed rules regarding the format and content of all applications for Mayflower Society member- ship, original and supplemental. It rigorously enforces those rules, rejecting and returning to state historians any applications which are deficient. This has contributed, at least in part, to the logjam in GSMD’s processing and ap- proval of new applications. Historian Muriel Cushing advised the BoA that she has requested that FSMD Governor Carter appoint three Assistant Historians to help her with pro- cessing applications to meet GSMD’s exacting standards. No BoA action was required as the State Governor already has the authori- ty to make such appointments. Per her request, Governor Carter appointed Kurt Bressner of the Hopkins Colony, Jana-lee Blair of the Tilley Colony and Linda Anderson of the Alden Colony to be Assistant Historians effective 10 May 2016.

A proposed change in the procedures involved when a junior member wishes to convert to regular membership between age 18 and 25 had been made by Standish Colony vice governor Nancy Ratner at the 2015 annual meeting and had been tabled and re- ferred to the BoA for further consideration. Nancy was present and explained her original concerns, which she said had been alle- viated as a result of more extensive discussions with the junior members and their sponsors prior to submitting an application. Therefore, she announced that she was withdrawing her proposal.

Standish Colony vice governor Nancy Ratner At the conclusion of last year’s annual meeting, a discussion was and Standish Colony governor Don Cahill held among some of FSMD’s officers regarding the existing proce- dures for reimbursing the DGG, AG and State Governor for their expenses in representing FSMD at General Society meetings. FSMD’s Constitution & Bylaws includes Standing Rule 5.2.3 regarding reimbursement of the State Gover- nor’s expense of attending GSMD triennial congresses (but not other expenses incurred in performing official func- tions) and Standing Rule 6.4.1 regarding disbursement of the DGG’s and AG’s expenses incurred in attending GSMD GBoA meetings and triennial congresses. These Standing Rules are inconsistent and out-of-date. A motion was made, seconded and carried that Standing Rules 5.2.3 and 6.4.1 be eliminated and that the matter of reimbursing the DGG and AG for their expenses in attending GSMD meetings, and the matter of reimbursing the State Governor (as well as other state officers) for expenses incurred in performing their official duties, be left to the annual budget- making process. Managing FSMD’s financial affairs (including the collection of receipts, the approval of expenditures and the adoption of an annual budget) is a State BoA (not a general membership) function and, at each Fall meeting, the BoA approves a budget for the fiscal year which sets limits on expense reimbursement. The BoA’s action to elim- inate these Standing Rules is subject to ratification by the members attending th 2016 annual meeting this Fall.

The Mayflower Compact was read by Captain Helen Bennett and the Benediction was offered by Elder Suzanne Ad- ams. Governor Carter declared the meeting adjourned at 12:20pm and wished everyone safe travel back to their homes.

The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 15

Society of Mayflower Descendants in the State of Florida Richard S. Wheeler, Editor [email protected] PRSRT STD US Postage Paid Hanover, PA 17331 Permit No. 4

LEGAL “STUFF” FROM THE EDITOR

he Florida Pilgrim is the official newsletter and the copyrighted property (© 2011-2016 — all rights re- served) of the Society of Mayflower Descendants in the State of Florida (“FSMD”), an unincorporated T voluntary membership organization recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) educational organi- zation. It is published three times a year in May, October and December. Please send submissions, comments or suggestions to the Editor at the email address listed above. Items submitted for publication may be shortened or otherwise edited and published at the Editor’s discretion. Photos should be in jpg format, be taken using the high- est resolution setting on your camera, and be accompanied by identification of all persons depicted so an appro- priate caption can be included. Sister Mayflower societies have permission to reprint any material with appropri- ate attribution. All others must obtain prior written permission from the Editor. All published items reflect the opinions of their authors and not necessarily those of FSMD, which does not vouch for the accuracy of any infor- mation contained herein. As a matter of privacy, we will not publish specific financial information about FSMD or any of its colonies. Also we will publish the name and email address of FSMD officers, BoA members, colony offic- ers and members but not their postal addresses or phone numbers except in extraordinary circumstances.

MEMBERSHIP INFO CHANGES If you have had (or expect to soon have) a change in any of the following:  Your name (e.g., in case of marriage or divorce)  Your permanent mailing address  Your email address  Your phone number  Your preference for delivery of the newsletter (i.e., email, online, USPS, or none ) please send an email to the state secretary at secre- [email protected]. Please put “Membership Info Change - ______Colony” in the “Subject” line and fill in the blank space with the name of your colony. Thank you. If you have a friend or family mem- ber who’s a FSMD member and who passes away, please let our state secretary know that too so we can send a note of condolences and in- clude the departed member in an appropriate memorial service. The Florida Pilgrim - Spring 2016 page 16