The Lower Susquehanna
Bulldog Club was founded around June 1979 with approximately 15 members.
The founding members included Bob
& Patsy Eisenberger, Bob & Mary Rawlinson, Susie Kline, Randy & Peg
Unser, Joe & Nancy Greene, and Paul & Nacy Worchester.
The club started as a spinoff of The
Bulldog Club of Philadelphia because numerous members were traveling hours to attend meetings there.
The need for a local club was created
by a growing local interest in the breed. The originals members met and created
bylaws for the new club. The first President was Bob Eisenberger.
The first puppy match was held at the home of Bob & Mary Rawlinson, as were many of the original matchs. The entry fee was $3.00 and the approximate entry was 35. The results of the match are not known, but the event was enjoyed a picnic at the match.
The first specialty show was held in
conjunction with the Harrisburg Kennel Club in 1993 and was dedicated to Bob
Eisenberger.. The Harrisburg Kennel Club is part of the Cherry Blossom Circuit.
The bulldog judge for the day was John
McGibbon from California and his selection for Best of Breed was Ch. Millcoats
Maximum Yardley, owned by Dr. Nancy Rose.
By all accounts, the first show was a
huge success and the club continued to grow. It is estimated that the club grew
to 75 members. The current membership is now around 55.
The club still holds its specialty in
conjunction with the Harrisburg circuit shows.
Important accomplishments include spearheading
a Bulldog Club of America rescue project during the Lancaster Puppy Mill
crisis. The area is known as a haven for hundreds of puppy mills.
Proceeds from match shows are donated
to better canines, including “Take A lead,” Humane Society, and numerous other
charities.
These historical facts were gathered
from interviews by Susie Kline and Bob Rawlinson and written by Paul Thornburg.