On July 13, 2013, the National Grange in conjunction with the Minnesota Historical Society’s Oliver Hudson Kelley Farm will be hosting an historical reenactment of the 1873 Grange degrees. As part of this project, the National Grange Youth Department will be presenting the exemplification of the four degrees.

According to Charlene Shupp Espenshade, National Grange Youth Director, "The 1873 degrees are one of the early versions of the founder’s work that has led to today’s version of our degree work. One of its most noticeable differences is that there are a total of eight degrees, four for women and four for men. Also the Officers wore different regalia compared to what Subordinate Officers wear today.  This degree set was a “work in progress” version as the founders worked with early Granges to try different things out and provide feedback. It will be interesting to see the subtle and significant changes to the degree presentation."

The four degree teams will travel to the farm to start practice on July 12, with the public event happening on July 13 at 10:30 AM.

National Grange is encouraging Grange members from across the country to be part of this celebration of Grange heritage, and to support the youth participating in this event.

In addition to the presentation of the degrees, Grangers will be able to participate in rural activities, such as assisting with farm, home and garden chores.

Information on the event can be found on the National Grange website at http://www.nationalgrange.org/2013-kelley-farm-experience/