Manson Grange marks completion of ADA ramp with ribbon cutting

MANSON — The Manson Grange celebrated the completion of a new Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible ramp during a ribbon-cutting ceremony July 9, highlighting the latest project in an ongoing effort to improve and preserve the historic community hall.

The ceremony was held with assistance from the Manson Chamber of Commerce and Historic Manson Mainstreet Association. Community members, local leaders and Grange supporters gathered to recognize the project and tour recent improvements to the building.

The ramp is part of a broader capital improvement program that began after a revitalization effort launched several years ago. Grange leaders said membership and activity levels had declined before a group of volunteers and new members worked to rebuild the organization and expand community involvement.

Mary Lynn Thompson, executive director of the Manson Chamber of Commerce, spoke before the ribbon cutting.

“This new ramp represents what Manson does best, removing barriers, opening doors, and making sure every neighbor feels welcome. The Grange has always been a place where people gather, celebrate, and support one another, and this improvement ensures that everyone can be part of that. I’m grateful to stand with the Grange today, because accessibility is really just another word for community,” Thompson said.

Also attending was state Rep. Mike Steele, R-Chelan, who represents the 12th Legislative District.

“The turnaround at the Manson Grange didn’t happen by accident, it happened because dedicated people rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Their commitment has restored an important gathering place for our community, and I’m grateful to have played a small part in helping them get started,” Steele said.

Grange officials credited the organization's capital improvement committee with helping guide the work. The committee was formed in 2022 to pursue grants and plan upgrades to the building.

Larry Hibbard of Hibbard Architecture donated design services for several projects, including the ADA ramp and lower-level restrooms, both of which have now been completed.

Terrie Carleton, a member of the capital improvement committee and the Grange's vice president, said additional projects are planned.

“The progress the Grange has made over the past four years has been truly remarkable. It started with establishing a clear vision, developing a phased strategic plan, securing funding through generous donations and grants, and then steadily completing each important step. With the accessible ramp now finished, our next phases will focus on adding upper floor restrooms and redesigning the front entrance. Each completed project brings us closer to ensuring the Grange remains a welcoming and accessible gathering place for the entire community,” Carleton said.

Grange President Susan Lester said the recent improvements reflect renewed community involvement.

“It is exciting to watch the new members re-energize the Grange. Our Grange Hall was built with the hearts and hands of our early members and the community. The recent improvement in ADA compliance exemplifies the success of our newest members at engaging both Manson and a broader community,” Lester said.

Following the ceremony, attendees toured the building and viewed improvements completed in recent years, including lower-level restrooms and upgrades to the heating and cooling system.

The Manson Grange was established April 3, 1923, with 48 members. The current Grange Hall site was purchased in 1936, and the building was formally dedicated April 3, 1948.

The organization continues to host monthly meetings and community activities at the hall.

Norm Manly Contributed to this report.