The Grange, formally known as The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, stands as a cornerstone in American history, an enduring social organization that has profoundly shaped rural communities and agricultural policy. Recognized as the United States’ oldest national agricultural advocacy group, The Grange was founded in 1867, emerging from the turbulent aftermath of the Civil War to empower farm families.
The Genesis of an Agricultural Movement: Post-Civil War America
The mid-1860s presented immense challenges for American agriculture, particularly in the war-ravaged Southern states. President Andrew Johnson, recognizing the urgent need for reform, commissioned Oliver H. Kelley, a Minnesota farmer, to survey and report on agricultural conditions across the South. Kelley’s journey exposed him to archaic farming methods and a deep-seated distrust among the impoverished farmers towards Northerners.
As a member of a Masonic Lodge, Kelley possessed a unique ability to transcend the sectional animosities that still lingered. His observations solidified his conviction: a structured organization was vital to uplift farmers through education, social connection, and economic cooperation. Kelley began corresponding with experts and writing extensively, laying the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary movement.
On December 4, 1867, Kelley, alongside six other men and one woman, officially co-founded the National Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry. This marked a significant departure from contemporary organizations, as membership was explicitly open to both men and women, fostering a truly inclusive fraternal group for rural communities. The nascent Grange aimed to enrich the social lives of farm families, facilitate the exchange of vital agricultural information, and, importantly, help heal the deep sectional divisions left by the Civil War. The first local Grange chapter was established in Fredonia, New York, in 1868, quickly becoming a hub for classes and social events tailored for farmers.
A Flourishing Movement: Growth, Influence, and Political Action
Drawing inspiration from Freemasonry, The Grange adopted a system of rituals, oaths, and secret meetings, not only to build camaraderie but also to protect its members from industrial spies, particularly from railroad companies. Its philosophical underpinnings also borrowed from Greek, Roman, and Biblical mythology, lending an air of tradition and gravitas to its proceedings.
By 1873, the National Grange had established its central headquarters in Washington, D.C., and appointed paid agents to help organize local branches nationwide. The impact was immediate and dramatic: membership skyrocketed from 200,000 in 1873 to an impressive 858,050 by 1875. This period of rapid expansion underscored the profound need for such an organization among America’s farming population.
The Grange’s commitment to inclusivity was further demonstrated by its requirement for women to hold at least four elected positions within the organization, a remarkably progressive stance for the era. As its influence burgeoned, Grangers increasingly engaged in political efforts, most notably in response to the devastating Panic of 1873, which drove crop prices to historic lows. Their advocacy led to the enactment of crucial “Granger laws,” designed to regulate railroad and grain warehouse rates, directly confronting the powerful industrial interests that often exploited farmers.
Pioneering Practical Solutions and Enduring Advocacy
Throughout the 1870s, The Grange was at the forefront of introducing innovative and essential farming practices that laid the foundation for modern agriculture. These initiatives included pooling savings to establish early credit unions, constructing community grain elevators for collective storage, and organizing cooperative purchasing of equipment to secure bulk discounts. These practical measures significantly bolstered the economic resilience of American farmers and contributed to the development of a more robust agricultural industry.
The influx of membership dues fueled the national organization, enabling many local Granges to establish consumer cooperatives, initially supplied by the pioneering wholesaler Aaron Montgomery Ward. Beyond economic reforms, the Granger movement became a potent force for broader social and political change. It claimed credit for key ideas that would eventually become institutions, such as the Cooperative Extension Service, Rural Free Delivery, and the Farm Credit System. The Grange also threw its weight behind other progressive causes, including the temperance movement, advocating for the direct election of Senators, and championing women’s suffrage.
A notable figure in this era was Mary Elizabeth Lease of Kansas, one of the nation’s first female attorneys and a dedicated Grange member. Lease crisscrossed the U.S., speaking at Grange halls and famously urging farmers to “raise less corn and more hell.” This impassioned plea was a strategic call to action, encouraging farmers to reduce overproduction to stabilize and raise crop prices.
The Evolving Legacy of the Grange
While never operating as a political party itself, Grangers were deeply involved in various political movements, particularly in the Midwestern United States during the late 19th century, influencing groups like the Reform Party of Wisconsin.
Over the decades, local Grange chapters became vital community anchors, undertaking a wide array of service projects. These included the construction of Grange Halls and Community Centers, the organization of rural fire departments, litter pick-up campaigns, the creation and maintenance of roadside parks, the installation of warning signals at railroad crossings, the sponsorship of nursing homes, Red Cross and United Fund Drives, first aid classes, support for historical museums, and the sponsorship of local fairs and fairgrounds. These initiatives cemented the Grange’s role as a cornerstone of rural community life.
Despite challenges, including periods of fiscal mismanagement and organizational difficulties stemming from its rapid growth, The Grange demonstrated remarkable resilience. Although membership saw a significant decline by the turn of the 20th century, it eventually rebounded and stabilized, adapting to changing agricultural landscapes. As the Kansas Grange noted in its 1973 centennial history, “Service to the membership and the community has always been one of the basic purposes of the Grange.” This included organizing collective purchasing and community “help” days for neighbors in need.
In the modern era, Grange membership has naturally decreased as the percentage of the American population engaged in farming has fallen dramatically, from a third in the early 20th century to less than 2% today. Between 1992 and 2007, membership declined by 40%. However, the organization remains active, with Washington state currently boasting the largest membership, at approximately 13,000.
In 2019, the National Grange revised its Mission Statement to reflect its evolving role: “The Grange strengthens individuals, families, and communities through grassroots action, service, education, advocacy, and agriculture awareness.”
As a steadfastly non-partisan organization, the Grange continues to support policies rather than political parties or specific candidates. Recognizing the shrinking farm population, it has strategically broadened its focus to encompass a wider variety of rural and community issues, welcoming anyone dedicated to its mission.
Conclusion: The Enduring Spirit of Community and Advocacy
From its post-Civil War origins, born out of necessity and a desire for unity, The Grange has carved an indelible mark on American society. It stands as a testament to the power of collective action, demonstrating how an organization can adapt and remain relevant across centuries. By fostering social cohesion, pioneering economic solutions, and advocating tirelessly for farmers’ rights and rural well-being, The Grange not only built stronger communities but also laid essential groundwork for many of the agricultural and social services we rely on today. Its legacy is one of unwavering commitment to grassroots empowerment and the enduring spirit of American agriculture.
