History and Trivia » Maine State Grange

Granges Featured in Maine Farm Project

Agriculture, Grange News, History and Trivia No Responses »

Apr 262013

Dear Maine State Grangers:

I have been involved with a volunteer project traveling around the state profiling unique Maine farms. The project involves a comprehensive website, traveling photo exhibit, a 224-page book, and a slideshow and discussion program. Here is a link to the website: www.uniquemainefarms.com

In my travels I began noticing how the Granges have been an important part of Maine farming. I decided to create eight webpages on the “Granges in Maine” and include these webpages in my project. You can access these webpages by going to the Home Page of the Unique Maine Farms’ website and looking for the link to “Granges in Maine.”

http://www.uniquemainefarms.com/uniquemainefarms.com/Granges_in_Maine.html

Hopefully, the Maine State Grange will be pleased that the story “Granges is Maine” will be included in the Unique Maine Farms’ project. I hope that the positive story and photos will prove to be some good complimentary coverage for Granges.

I encourage the various Granges in Maine to send a photo of their Grange building if they would like to see it appear on the webpage that I created that is entitled “Some of the Maine Grange Buildings.”

There are so many beautiful and historic Grange buildings and I think visitors to the Unique Maine Farms’ website might enjoy looking at pictures of them.

The story that I created was based on information that I gleaned from the Maine State Grange website and from various places where I have been and seen a Grange presence such as the Fryeburg Fair.

If you see a need for any corrections with the story that I wrote please let me know.

I realize that the Grange is involved with many very worthy projects and I did not address several of them. Because the Unique Maine Farms’ project is concentrated on farming in Maine the focus of my discussion on the Granges in Maine was farming-related. Thanks for your understanding on this.

If you would like to get an idea about many of the over 120 farms that I have visited, here is a link to a recent eight-minute video that I posted online about the Unique Maine Farms’ book project that I have been working on:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncQy5ldOJ

I was very impressed with the wonderful work that the Grange has accomplished in Maine.

If anyone knows the name of the lady who is sitting in front of the Grange information table in the photo on the Fryeburg Fair photo page, please let me know. She was so sweet and I forgot to ask her name and I would like to recognize her properly!

Looking forward to receiving some photos of the Grange buildings and also farm-related Grange news.

With appreciation,

Mary Quinn Doyle

Unique Maine Farms

www.uniquemainefarms.com

mqdoyle

gmail

com (mqdoyle

gmail

com)

207-793-2759

Secretary of State Recognizes Merriconeag Grange

Grange News, History and Trivia No Responses »

Mar 022013

HARPSWELL, Maine — Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap recognized the Merriconeag Grange for achieving 100 years of incorporation during their Anniversary Celebration in Harpswell on Friday, March 1, 2013.

Joseph E. Alexander was Maine’s Secretary of State when Merriconeag Grange #425 was first incorporated on February 8, 1913; however, it had already existed informally for several years. Founding incorporators included; Edward Pierce, President; Perley Hackett, Vice President; Lewis Alexander, Secretary; and Samuel Alexander, Treasurer. Since that time, the core members of the Merriconeag Grange have worked hard to keep the physical property maintained, while retaining the rituals and values that the Grange was established on.

The Department of the Secretary of State, Division of Corporations maintains records for over 80,000 business entities and nonprofit corporations. Other Maine corporations celebrating 100 years of incorporation during 2013 include: Penobscot Capital Investment Company; Paris Hill Country Club; St. Joseph’s Convent and Hospital; Trustees of the John B. Curtis Free Public Library; The Woman’s Literacy Union, Inc.; Hollis Center Library Association; West Gouldsboro Village Improvement Association; Kezar Falls Circulating Library; Juniper Point Village Improvement Society; The Mount Dessert Island Biological Laboratory; Center Harbor Yacht Club; The Hancock Point Library Association; Acorn Grange, No. 418, Patrons of Husbandry; Cornish School and Alumni Association; and Fraternity Hall Association, Limited.

Curtains Without Borders

History and Trivia No Responses »

Feb 162013

Cornville Town Hall

Many of you will remember Chris Hadsel (chris dot hadselgmail dot com) from Curtains Without Borders. Chris has been busy documenting and helping with preservation of the many curtains found in Grange and Town Halls around New England. Chris has also shared many of her findings with us during State Conferences. She could use a little help… she’s currently trying to find out something, anything, about some of the artists of the curtains and says that “one in particular thwarts me no end. H.C. Aiken painted Pomona in North Anson, Ceres in Skowhegan and Flora in Cornville.” She’s looking for Grangers in the Skowhegan area who might be able to help… particularly anyone who might have been part of the “big Grange in Skowhegan before it closed.” You can contact Chris via email by clicking on her name above… and remember, ANY information about any of these curtains is welcomed!

National Grange Releases Eighth Book

History and Trivia, Uncategorized No Responses »

Feb 162013

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On Feb. 12, the National Grange released “Mentor in the Granges and Homes of Patrons of Husbandry” as a Kindle download available through Amazon’s Kindle Store.

Originally published in 1876, the book was designed to explain the origin, aims and government of the National Grange.

“First Chaplain of the National Grange, Rev. Aaron B. Grosh, paints a picture of all aspects of the Grange in 1876 for those seeking to join the organization and current members,” National Grange President Ed Luttrell said Tuesday.

Luttrell said the book was important at the time and gives those interested in history a view of the Grange and social pressures surrounding it.

“This book is a very thorough manual and was not only a very important read to members of the time but for those who oppose the Grange,” Luttrell said. “Grosh was very careful to use this book as an opportunity to speak to those who opposed the Grange at the time.”

He also said the book has great relevance for members today.

“This book [Mentor in the Granges and Homes of Patrons of Husbandry] paints a picture of the Grange in the late 1800s and reminds us today how the Grange has evolved. It is not only fascinating but important for Grange members to read and understand the history of the Grange,” Luttrell said.

The National Grange has signed a 90-day exclusivity deal for “Mentor in the Granges and Homes of Patrons of Husbandry” with Amazon and the Amazon Kindle Store. The e-book will be added to the Barnes and Noble Nook Store after the exclusivity deal expires.

This is the eighth e-book the National Grange has released. Previous releases include “The Granger Movement,” “Friend of the Farmer,” “Legal and Economic Influence of the Grange,” “Notes and Quotes,” “Proud Heritage,” “First Century of Service” and “People, Pride and Progress.”

“These books tell a very interesting history of the American people, spirit and culture,” Luttrell said.

Luttrell said the organization continues to seek treasures like Grosh’s book that tell the story of the Grange in communities and states throughout the nation as it prepares to celebrate its 150 anniversary in 2017. Any authors wishing to share their work with the Grange should contact National Grange Communications Director Amanda Leigh Brozana by email at abrozananationalgrange dot org (abrozananationalgrange dot org) or by calling (888) 4-GRANGE ext. 102.

“Mentor in the Granges and Homes of Patrons of Husbandry” is available as an e-book for $4.99. BUY IT NOW.

Countdown to Grange Month…

Community Service, Grange News, History and Trivia, Web Site Information No Responses »

Feb 122013

National Grange recently posted on Facebook…

The 2013 Grange Month Packets are in the mail and on their way, but if you can’t wait, the 2013 Grange Month Material is available on the National Grange website in the members only section under “Downloadble Forms.”

It’s not too early to get started on your Grange Month Plans! Have you elected a Community Citizen yet? Remember, it’s easier to make news than it is to write press releases (although press releases are a great idea!). What exciting things can you do for Grange Month to generate interest and get people to visit your hall and get interested in your Grange? How about a special community service project? Or maybe a good old-fashioned family night… something as simple as board games or talent competitions between families…?

Town Meeting season is just around the corner… what’s more “American” than a town meeting!? How can your Grange help? Some Granges provide refreshments or even a meal.

How about a simple display at your local library… I’ve often thought that it would be really cool to do some sort of “re-enactment” of what discussions might have been like during the early Grange years… maybe even with period garb. What a great program to offer your local school!

Let’s show our communities some real American Values and Hometown Roots! If you’ve got a particularly great idea you’re willing to share, submit it for posting. You won’t get cash, but you will get credit!

Granger Movement in New England

History and Trivia No Responses »

Jan 192013

This article comes from the most recent edition of the New Grange Newsletter published by National Grange… the current edition includes stories about several Grange Departments, a report of what happened to the Christmas Trees at National Conference, a great recipe for chocolate chip cookies, and a whole lot more! Subscribe today!

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Jan. 4, the National Grange released, for the first time ever, “The Granger Movement in New England” as a Kindle download available through Amazon’s Kindle Store.

The 1960 book, a thesis written by then-Harvard student Laurence Michael Hager, explores the impact of the Grange in New England while staying insightful and interesting, National Grange President Ed Luttrell said.

“This is a fascinating history and what is more exciting is that it has never before been available to the public,” Luttrell said. “Mr. Hager was thorough in his research and writing and generous in his willingness to allow the Grange the publishing rights.”

The digital version is 64 pages, including index, prologue and footnotes.

“This book [The Granger Movement in New England] paints a picture of the bleak social and educational conditions existing in the rural areas of New England and how the Grange was able to improve on those conditions,” National Grange President Ed Luttrell said Friday. “Mr. Hager challenges preconceived notions on New England and Grange history with this work.”

The National Grange has signed a 90-day exclusivity deal for “The Granger Movement in New England” with Amazon and the Amazon Kindle Store. The e-book will be added to the Barnes and Noble Nook Store after the exclusivity deal expires.

This is the seventh e-book the National Grange has released. Previous releases include “Friend of the Farmer,” “Legal and Economic Influence of the Grange,” “Notes and Quotes,” “Proud Heritage,” “First Century of Service” and “People, Pride and Progress.”

“These books tell a very interesting history of the American people, spirit and culture,” Luttrell said.

Luttrell said the organization continues to seek treasures like Hager’s book that tell the story of the Grange in communities and states throughout the nation as it prepares to celebrate its 150 anniversary in 2017. Any authors wishing to share their work with the Grange should contact National Grange Communications Director Amanda Leigh Brozana by email at abrozananationalgrange dot org (abrozananationalgrange dot org) or by calling (888) 4-GRANGE ext. 102.

“The Granger Movement in New England” is available as an e-book for $4.99

National Grange Releases Two More E-Books!

Grange News, History and Trivia No Responses »

Nov 132012

The National Grange has released two more e-books!

On Nov. 6, the National Grange released its fifth e-book, “First Century of Service and Evolution: The Grange, 1867-1967,” as a Kindle download available through Amazon’s Kindle Store. Written by W.L. Robinson, the book looks at the first 100 years of the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry. The digital version of the 1967 text has 120 pages, including index, introduction and footnotes.

“‘W.L. Robinson did a great job chronicling the first hundred years of the National Grange of Patrons of Husbandry,” National Grange President Ed Luttrell said. “We have evolved from being a strictly agricultural organization to one that is prevalent with all members of society. It is a fascinating look on how we got to where we are.”

“First Century of Service and Evolution: The Grange, 1867-1967″ is available as an e-book for $4.99, the same price as previously released “Friend of the Farmer,” “Legal and Economic Influence of the Grange,” “Notes and Quotes” and “Proud Heritage.”

On Nov. 9, the National Grange released its sixth e-book, “People, Pride and Progress: 125 Years of the Grange in America,” as a Kindle download available through Amazon’s Kindle Store. The text, written by David H. Howard, is an examination of the first 125 years of the Grange. The digital version of the 1992 text has 219 pages, including index, introduction and footnotes.

“‘People, Pride and Progress’ shows exactly why the Grange has been such a powerful force in American agricultural life for the last hundred years. ” National Grange President Ed Luttrell said. “This book is a must read for anyone interested in the people behind such a storied organization.”

“People, Pride and Progress: 125 Years of the Grange in America” is available as an e-book for $4.99, the same price as “Friend of the Farmer,” “Legal and Economic Influence of the Grange,” “Notes and Quotes,” “Proud Heritage” and “First Century of Service.”

National Grange Releases Fourth E-Book

Grange News, History and Trivia, Uncategorized No Responses »

Oct 302012

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Oct. 26, the National Grange released its fourth e-book, “Proud Heritage: A Composite History of the Early Years of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry,” as a Kindle download available through Amazon’s Kindle Store. The book, written by Grange historian and author C. Jerome Davis, details the first years of the organization.

The digital version of the 1987 text has 138 pages, including index, introduction, and footnotes.

“While ‘Notes and Quotes’ dealt with the founding of our Order, ‘Proud Heritage’ describes, in detail, the triumphs and struggles of the subsequent years,” National Grange President Ed Luttrell said. “I want readers to understand that our founders worked extremely hard to make sure this organization would endure. C. Jerome Davis does a great job of showcasing how hard work and dedication are vital to any organization, especially this one.”

The National Grange has signed a 90-day exclusivity deal for “Proud Heritage” with Amazon and the Amazon Kindle Store. The e-book will be added to the Barnes and Noble Nook Store after the exclusivity deal expires.

“Friend of the Farmer,” the National Grange’s previous e-book release, is now available for sale on both the Amazon Kindle Store and the Barnes and Noble Nook Store, while both “Legal and Economic Influence of Grange” and “Notes and Quotes” are still under Amazon’s exclusivity deals. The National Grange is expected to produce several other volumes in digital format, including the 1966 “First Century of Service,” and the 1984 book “People, Pride and Progress”.

“These books tell a very interesting history of the American people, spirit and culture,” Luttrell said.

“Proud Heritage: A Composite History of the Early Years of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry” is available as an e-book for $4.99, the same price as “Friend of the Farmer,” “Legal and Economic Influence of the Grange” and “Notes and Quotes.”

Established in 1867, The National Grange, a nonpartisan, nonprofit fraternal organization, is the oldest agricultural and rural community service organization. With more than 2,100 local chapters, the Grange has evolved into the nation’s leading rural advocacy organization and a major benefactor to local communities. There are more than 160,000 members across the United States. For more information on the National Grange, visit our website at www.nationalgrange.org.

National Grange Releases Third E-Book

Grange News, History and Trivia No Responses »

Oct 162012

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Oct. 12, the National Grange released “Notes and Quotes: On the Origin of the Ritual and Early Years of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry” as a Kindle download available through Amazon’s Kindle Store.

The text, written by author C. Jerome Davis, delves into the early history of the Grange as well as the meaning of many of the ritualistic aspects of the organization.

The digital version of the 1974 text has 121 pages, including index, introduction and footnotes.

“‘Notes and Quotes’ provides an unprecedented amount of insight into the founding of our Order,” National Grange President Ed Luttrell said. “C. Jerome Davis spent years researching and collecting the information that shaped this book. Not many people were able to read it when it was first published, due to a small run of printed copies, so I’m glad that people will finally get the opportunity to get their hands on this excellent book.”

The National Grange has signed a 90-day exclusivity deal for “Notes and Quotes: On the Origin of the Ritual and Early Years of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry” with Amazon and the Amazon Kindle Store. The e-book will be added to the Barnes and Noble Nook Store after the exclusivity deal expires.

“Friend of the Farmer,” the National Grange’s previous e-book release, is now available for sale on both the Amazon Kindle Store and the Barnes and Noble Nook Store, while “Legal and Economic Influence of Grange” is still under Amazon’s exclusivity deal. The National Grange is expected to produce several other volumes in digital format, including the 1966 “First Century of Service,” the 1984 book “People, Pride and Progress,” and the 1987 work “Proud Heritage.”

“These books tell a very interesting history of the American people, spirit and culture,” Luttrell said.

“Notes and Quotes: On the Origin of the Ritual and Early Years of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry” is available as an e-book for $4.99, the same price as both “Friend of the Farmer” and “Legal and Economic Influence of the Grange.”

What’s in a Name?

History and Trivia No Responses »

Sep 212012

Webmaster Note–The following article is reprinted from the weekly e-newsletter published by National Grange for the Grange Family. This is certainly interesting… and very logical!

The formal, legal name of the organization (which as we know is commonly referred to as “the Grange”) including all of its chapters, divisions and affiliated entities, as created in the original constitution in 1868 and carried forward to this day is “The Order of Patrons of Husbandry.” The term “Grange” was originally supposed to be used as the designation of a specific chapter of the organization. Thus, for example, the full and legal name of the District of Columbia chapter of the organization is Potomac Grange (chapter) #1 of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry. The full legal name of the national organization is The National Grange (chapter) of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry. Use of the term “Grange” was originally intended in the 1860′s and early 1870′s as a means of allowing a shortened, truncated version of the full legal name of any particular chapter because once you saw the term Grange in the title of the local state or national chapter, it was supposed to be implicitly understood that the phrase “of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry” automatically followed. Read the full story

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