Buffalo Colony

Although Society members created the Buffalo Association of the Society of Mayflower Descendants on June 25, 1901, with Henry R. Howland as its President, the reconstituted Buffalo Colony held its first meeting in 1962. Its members helped save the Ainsley Wilcox Mansion from being destroyed. This home served as a barracks in the War of 1812 and was the site of Theodore Roosevelt’s swearing-in ceremony upon the death of President William McKinley on September 14, 1901. The Buffalo Colony holds luncheon meetings twice a year.

Colony Masthead

Christine Berg, Colony Governor, White Descendant

Susan Dybas, Colony Treasurer, Allerton Descendant

Contact: buffalocolonysomd1901@gmail.com

From the Newsletter

The SOMD Buffalo Colony met at the Henrietta, NY, Town Library in the Community Room on May 16, 2026 at 1:30 PM. After the meeting was called to order, an abbreviated meeting agenda followed. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, the Blessing was read, the Mayflower Nations Song was sung and the toast was made to honor our passenger Ancestors and the Mayflower.  Members introduced themselves and their guests and then the Mayflower Compact was read. Roll Call, announcements, and the Pilgrim Pledge came next before the business meeting was adjourned. This allowed ample time for attendees to listen to our invited guest speaker, Dr. Preston Pierce, Ontario County Historian, who spoke on the topic of “Plymouth Rock, Enduring Symbol of America.”  Preston mentioned many facts about Plymouth Rock that one might not have known previously. He also shared a few book references that have a considerable wealth of information about the Pilgrims and the Plymouth, MA area. Members and guests asked questions and shared information while enjoying refreshments at the end of the presentation.

Members were made aware to “save the date” for the next meeting on October 10, 2026, with details to be finalized and distributed soon.

Buffalo’s Participation in Previous Events