JULY 18-20, 2003
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

This year's focus will be on the Bland Families of Georgia.   All Blands and descendants are invited to attend.

Our purposes are to help connect those attending with their heritage (which can extend as far back as 1646 on this continent), to meet new Blands and to renew old acquaintances.  Since we have 38 different Bland family lines throughout the country, we are hoping everyone will bring  family information and memorabilia.  We have space available at Comfort Inn and Suites on Friday and Saturday and at Carey Hilliard Restaurant on Saturday to display pictures, books and family charts.

An auction will be held to raise money to assist in the preservation of Bland Historic Sites.  Auction items can be antiques, handcrafts, or anything of historic value to Blands.  At Hampton, Virginia, in 2000, items included an ax and a hangman’s noose, purportedly used on Blands who “stepped over the line.”

Family songs, legends, or fables heard on Grandpa’s knee will be welcome at the Annual Bland Talent Show.  Blands who wish to share talents or skills must provide their own props.  We want this Reunion to represent ALL Bland family lines, so please be prepared to share.  We plan to have FUN!

Charles L.  Bland, one of the organization founders and Family Historian, annually publishes information about Bland families in Among Cousins.  His presentation on Saturday will feature the history of the Bland families of Georgia.

We look forward to seeing you in Savannah.  The Site Committee has some interesting things planned for you.  Activities will include The Annual Bland Talent Show, The Bland Historic Sites Fund Auction, a time to get acquainted, the general meeting on Saturday, which includes a southern luncheon buffet, and the annual group photo.  A tour of Savannah at a discounted price (not included in registration fee) is optional, and will immediately follow the Saturday general meeting.  An accurate count for the luncheon and the tour must be given ahead of time to receive the best rate.

Bland Reunion Committee

Patricia Elliott, Chairperson