Page 2 - Changing Granger

The Grange Movement in America
In 1866, after the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson sent Oliver H. Kelly to the South, to survey the damage to the farms.Though a “Yankee” by birth, Kelly was able to communicate with Southerners because of his membership in the Masons, a fraternal organization.
Kelly returned north with the goal of developing a national organization similar to the Masons but with advancement of agriculture as a common shared goal that would unify farmers.
On December 4, 1867, the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry was founded.
A Perspective on the Copake Grange
The Grange had its origin right after the Civil War. Over the past year and a half, we have worked hard in reviving the Grange here in Copake. In doing so we have remained true to the core principles of this civic organization. We welcome everyone and we are non-partisan. We come together because we share a common goal - we want to save this historic hall, and we all want to work for the good of Copake and the Roe Jan area.
When we were visited last year by the head of the NYS Grange, Steven Coye, he told us about the history of the Grange, and pointed out its relevance in the current climate in our society.
In a time when, once again, our country is divided and polarized, this is a bit of an experiment. Can people from diverse backgrounds, and of diverse beliefs work together for a common goal?
So far the answer is a resounding “yes.” As members we do not just tolerate each other; we enjoy each other and we have a lot of fun.
And we think that this is good for Copake, and for the Roeliff Jansen community.
We hope you will consider joining us.
Husbandry?
No, it’s not about being a good spouse. The dictionary definition is:
The care, cultivation, and breeding of crops and animals
Synonyms:
● farm management
● farming, agriculture
● land management
● Agronomy
● Agronomics
● Agribusiness, cultivation, tillage;
animal husbandry
.