The Grange is an organization that began in 1867 rising from the destruction of the Civil War to rural fields and farmland. The South’s farms were in disrepair and farm animals were depleted. The transportation infrastructure lay in ruins, with little railroad service to move crops and animals to market as rails, bridges, and rail yards were destroyed.
An era began that encouraged farming families to band together on common ground to promote the well-being of the community and agriculture, to rebuild farmlands, restore the railroad system, and establish a rural mail delivery system. Hence, the Grange organization was created.
Today, the Grange has developed into a community service organization present in every state. Membership is open to everyone, including both youth and adults and each Grange determines how best to serve its community. The Golden Empire Grange has been operating for over 50 years…
Our history and legacy still support a strong interest in agriculture, healthy communities, fun, and friendships – where new friends are made and old friends are cherished. We are a non-profit organization that is not affiliated with any religious group or political party.
Mount Vernon Grange Hall: A Legacy of Community
(Transcribed from original documents)
The National Grange, formally known as the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, was established in 1867 through Oliver H. Kelley’s vision. Throughout their history, Grange Halls have been vital community hubs, hosting educational programs, shared meals, dances, town meetings, and Grange activities.
Humble Beginnings
Mount Vernon’s Grange story began in the Mount Pleasant District. In 1910, residents decided to “erect a hall in our neighborhood to improve our social conditions.” When the Mount Pleasant Hall was auctioned, they successfully bid $156 for the building. The sale was finalized on February 23, 1910, allowing them to relocate the structure to the Mount Vernon District.
Birth of Mount Vernon Grange #453
A pivotal moment came on February 5, 1931, when William Crow organized a neighborhood meeting featuring State Grange representative Mr. Van Allen. This gathering led to the establishment of Mount Vernon Subordinate Grange No. 453, with a charter granted on February 13, 1931.
The founding members included John and Agnes Berg, Herman and Dolores Churchwell, Willard and Tillie Ralston, George and Cora Patterson, William and Nettie Crow, Marguerite Sedgley, Joseph Snyder, Neil Hubert, Emma Roehr, and Roy Gassaway. George Patterson served as the first Worthy Master. From 1931 to 1939, the Grange met at the original Mount Vernon Community Hall.
Building a New Home
In 1939, under Master John E. Edwards’ leadership, plans for a larger hall took shape. Clarke L. and Grace Edwards generously donated 1.2 acres in the Rock Creek District along Columbia Road. William Billings oversaw construction, designing the building with assistance from Louise Melton of Diamond Match Company, while G.O. Griffin served as contractor.
Grange members contributed much of the labor themselves. The community rallied together with fundraising events including dances, card parties, rummage sales, and carnivals to finance the project.
Celebration and Growth
The new hall was dedicated on Tuesday evening, July 18, with Roy Gassaway serving as Master. Mel Herrickson acted as master of ceremonies, with performances by Miss Lora Mae from radio station KFBI, Dorothea Frisby, and Dodie Lathrop. After midnight refreshments, dancing continued into the night. The grand opening dance followed that Saturday, featuring music by the Glen McCrary band.
In 1950, a new wing was added and dedicated to Charles L. Edwards for his contributions to the Junior Grange program. For over 67 years, the hall has served multiple purposes—hosting Grange activities, public events, private gatherings, and even functioning as a polling place.
During the Auburn School District’s enrollment surge in 1960, the hall temporarily transformed into classrooms, accommodating 111 students across two kindergarten sessions plus second and third-grade classes. Teachers included Mrs. Young, Gertrude Green, and Dorothy Hall.
The Mount Vernon Grange Hall holds a special place in the hearts of many, with generations of community members sharing cherished memories of the time spent within its walls. walls.