Easton Grange has a New Website

Just a few years ago, it looked as if the Easton Grange was about to go out of business. Today with a rapidly growing membership, the group has launched its own website thanks to the efforts of member Dottie Fulginiti.  The Grange blends an “old-timey” atmosphere with a modern commitment to the local agriculture and horticulture, the environment, and the preservation of its historic building.

The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry is the official name for one of the most important progressive organizations in American history. Organized in 1867 to heal the wounds of the Civil War by promoting the common interests of small farmers, North and South. The Grange went on to promote such important reforms as the Interstate Commerce Commission, modern farming practices, and RFD mail service. Perhaps most importantly in an age when women were just beginning to fight for their rights, the Grange was an organization open to both genders.

It’s hard to believe that an organization devoted to farm issues would have found fertile ground here in Shovel Town, but Easton has had a Grange since 1892. In fact, for a long time Easton had two Granges reflecting our own North/South split. Today’s revitalized Grange is focused on saving the old Grange Hall at the corner of Elm and Washington Street where the Lions’ Club has its thrift shop. Besides working to save the Hall, today’s Grange has donated funds to a variety of modern causes like the Easton Food Pantry and a group that provides seeds and training for third world farmers. This year, Grange members are participating in a series of lectures on home farming at the library, opening up a plot at the new Community Gardens at Wheaton Farm, and promoting an event to raise funds for the Cultural Council along with traditional Grange activities like a vegetable judging contest. The produce from the garden plot will be donated to the Easton Food Pantry. If you are interested in a group with a long tradition and modern goals, the Grange might be for you. Check out the new website.