700How We Started

History of the Eastern Chapter of the Wild Sheep Foundation

In 1990, at the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) Convention in Reno, a small group of WSF (formerly FNAWS) members from the northeastern states held an organizational meeting. Here the original officers and directors were appointed until an election could be held.

Early members/directors include our founder C. Reed Steinmetz of Reamstown, PA; Frank Blaha Jr. of Hopewell, VA; Ken Hess of Willow Street, PA; Wes Blakeman of Shelton, CT; and Stanley Boots of Baldwinsville, NY.  Dr. Bruce Thatcher, Simon Aragi, Darlene Stansfield, and Gerald Moody were added as directors a short time later.

Reed Steinmetz was largely responsible for the success of the Eastern Chapter of the Wild Sheep Foundation. He began his own business from the ground up and it became a very successful business. He put this same dedication and energy into his efforts to put more sheep on the mountain and grow our organization. He was an inspiration to many and put his whole heart into the things he loved and believed in. It was very important for him to assure future generations to be able to be a part of the hunting world he loved so dearly.

In 1991, the Eastern Chapter held its first annual convention at the Eden Resort in Lancaster, PA. Approximately 60 people attended and the chapter grossed $65,000.00 that first year and the chapter gained about 200 members. Currently the chapter has over 700 Annual and Life Members and has been able to donate over 3.6 million dollars!

During the first four years, the majority of the office work was done at Reed’s home. When there became too much, he hired a secretary on an “as needed” basis. Sandra, Reed’s wife, was an active part of the team since day one. The chapter used to host golf tournaments and an “Adopt-A-Sheep” Program.

Since then, there has always been a full-time employee working for the chapter and many annual conventions and golf tournaments later, the chapter has continued to flourish. Reed’s dreams continue to live on as more become involved in support of his cause and the goals of the Eastern Chapter of the Wild Sheep Foundation.

2026 Hunting & Outdoor Expo

We Look Forward to Seeing you in Lancaster, PA!

The Eastern Chapter of the Wild Sheep Foundation is excited to have our 2026 Hunting and Outdoor Expo once again! Based on the success of this past year and the positive feedback from our members and vendors, our Expo will remain at the Wyndham Lancaster Resort & Convention Center in Lancaster County, PA. Of course, admission is still FREE! We have lots of new and exciting events and donations for our 35th Annual Hunting and Outdoor Expo!