In 1909, the descendants of Alexander Shapleigh, The Immigrant, desiring to form family ties and preserve their history and heritage, called for a gathering of their clan. So, Nicholas Shapleigh of Centre Lebanon, Maine, placed an ad in the Somersworth, NH, newspaper, The Foster, as follows:

I am requested by many of the family to give notice that there will be a meeting of the Shapleigh Family in form of a basket picnic, at Central Park, on the line of the electric railraod between Dover and Somersworth on Tuesday, July 20; if stormy that day, then the next fair day. At this meeting it is proposed to organize a Shapleigh Family Association and elect officers of the same for the ensuing years. All persons by the name of Shapleigh, all persons descended from Alexander Shapleigh the Immigrant, whether of the name or no, and all those who have married into the family are cordially invited. Other families have their reunions and there is no reason why the Shapleigh famimily should not organize and have annual reunions. As there is no hotel in the vicinity do not forget to take a basket with a lunch. Remember the date. Come and get acquainted with each other.

                                                              ~ Nicholas B. Shapleigh

The Association formed with energy and excitement has persevered over one hundred years! Now once again we are calling all Shapleighs, their spouses and kin to come together to become better acquainted and to celebrate our common heritage and to pass the baton on for another 100 years.

We are in the process of planning the memorable event. We are going back to the site of that first meeting in Somersworth, NH, on Saturday, July 18, 2009. Please reserve the date, details to follow.