A quick overview

The Grange is a national fraternal organization founded in the late 1800’s with local and state “chapters” or groups. Aptos Grange is one of the local chapters.

It was formed as a “citizens organization” developed to give family farmers a collective voice in government and other issues. In the 1800’s and early 1900’s 97% of American citizens were farmers, yet they had no voice in government because they were individuals isolated on private farms of 40 to 400 acres. Many without electricity.

The Grange has a rich history of influence in what made America great. For just a taste you may wish to research what the “Granger Laws” are all about. You may also wish to visit the National Grange web site for more information.

The Grange is a mere shadow of the giant power organization it used to be, but it is still a great organization with a rich history protecting farmers and growing America.

It has evolved to be a grass roots community group and a “Farming and Local issues” based community group.

The Aptos area doesn’t have much farming anymore, but the Aptos Grange has evolved into a great community meeting hall and gathering venue.

All of the Local Grange members serve as volunteers. Many are retired seniors, some are still working regular jobs and raising families.

We still advocate for the small farmer and other local issues.

Our Roots & The Founders

On December 4, 1867 in a small Washington, D.C., building that housed the office of William Saunders, Superintendent of Propagating Gardens in the Department of Agriculture, the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, more commonly known as the Grange, was born. Here, sitting around a plain wooden table, a group of seven earnest men, planned what was destined to become a vital force in preserving and expanding American democracy. They were all men of vision-they had faith in God, in their fellow man and the future. The Seven Founders of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry were:

Oliver H. Kelley • William Saunders

Aaron B. Grosh • William M. Ireland

John R. Thompson • Francis McDowell

John Trimble, assisted by Caroline Hall, who was later named an honorary 8th founder of the Grange.

Their names are inscribed on a Birthplace Marker located near the site of the original building on the south side of 4th Street SW, near Madison Street on the mall in Washington DC The marker was officially dedicated on Sept. 9, 1951, and is the only private monument on the mall