| November 11, 2016 -- Taghhannuck Grange was pleased to have won first prize in the Bethlehem Fair Grange exhibit contest. A fair amount of research went into the “postcards” that are part of the exhibit:
Paved Roads – The problem: Connecticut rural roads were impossible to negotiate either by motor or horse drawn vehicle. Town and rural residents got stuck in the mud and it was both troublesome and costly.
What we did: In the 1930s at a meeting held at the State Capitol, the Connecticut Rural Roads Improvement Association Inc. was formed with the Grange State Master as its president.
Result: The State Legislature passed the “Town Aid Bill” allocating 3 million dollars to be allotted from the Highway Funds to Connecticut towns for improvement of roads. Towns are still getting money today.
Women’s Rights – The problem: Women did not have the same quality of life in society as men.
What we did: In 1867 the National Grange gave full voice and vote to women in the Grange well before women’s rights in 1920. In 1903 Susan B. Anthony’s last public appearance was at the National Grange Convention.
Result: The National Master is now a woman and women have come a long way towards equality.
Rural Free Delivery – The problem: There was no mail delivery in some rural areas which caused problems for businesses and farmers since farmers were in the fields unable to get to the post office to pick up their mail.
What we did: In 1901 the National Grange secured passage of legislation for Rural Free Delivery Mail Service. In 1930 the National Grange opposed consolidation of RFD routes.
Result: Mail is delivered for free to rural homes, businesses, farms, etc.
Farmers Neeed A Voice – The problem: Farmers had little to no impact economically or politically on policy issues since they were so geographically spread out.
What we did: In 1867 farmers got together and formed the Grange to promote the social and economic needs of farmers and make a stronger voice for change.
Result: Improved lifestyle and quality of rural life.
C amp B e r g e r – T h e problem: Family is important in the Grange. Rural youth did not have many structured learning opportunities. We are always looking for ways to improve the lives of youth. We believe different kinds of education are very important.
What we did: In 1956, the Connecticut State Grange established a camp to foster leadership and a wide range of skills for members of the Junior Grange. Camp Berger is now open to all youth ages 7-14.
Result: At camp, youth now have the opportunity to gain knowledge and a sense of responsibility from outdoor living and improve their leadership skills. |
