Manson Grange turns 100 – awarded Citation of Commendation

MANSON - April 1923, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company started producing inflatable tires and Insulin became generally available for diabetics. April 18, 74,000 people were on hand for the opening of Yankee Stadium in New York. "Yes! We Have No Bananas" by Billy Jones was number four on U.S. Billboard and a little closer to home, the Manson Grange #796 was organized April 23, 1923, with 48 members.
At the time there were two additional Granges in the area, the Lake Chelan Grange and the 25-Mile Creek Grange. Both are no longer active. The Manson Grange is a part of the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, a fraternal organization for farmers and rural communities.
In 1930 a vote was taken to build a new Grange Hall. The current site of the Manson Grange Hall was purchased in 1936 through community donations and the property was paid in full in two years. In March of 1947 the basement was dug and on April 3, 1948 the new Grange Hall was dedicated.
In addition to its agricultural activities, the Manson Grange also played a key role in the community. The organization sponsored events such as dances, talent shows, and dinners that brought together people from all walks of life and helped to create a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Today, the Manson Grange continues to serve the community by providing meeting space for local organizations and hosting a variety of events throughout the year. The organization is proud of its rich history and remains committed to promoting the well-being of the Manson community and its residents.
At the Washington State Grange Convention, held June 21–24, at Moses Lake, Gordon Lester, Manson Grange Overseer accepted a “Citation of Commendation” and a letter of congratulations from the National Grange President Betsy E. Huber. In her letter she stated, “It is because of Granges like Manson Grange #796 that our Order has survived for more than 150 years of service to our nation and will continue to prosper in communities like yours.”
There are many volunteer opportunities available at the Manson Grange. To learn more, attend our monthly meeting, the 4th Tuesday of each month, starting at 7 p.m. at the Grange Hall. Contact Norm Manly 509-293-0225 or visit our website www.mansongrange.com for more information.