Historian

NOTES FROM YOUR HISTORIAN

With 2026 being the sesqui-quintcentennial or 250 years of the United States, it is appropriate that
Grangers recognize this momentous occasion. Following are a few ideas for the various departments to
participate.

Lecturers – Discuss the significance of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. What were the
repercussions for the signers? Did they gain or lose money, business, land or family? How many can you
name? Learn something about some of the lesser-known ones.

Youth – Research some of the lesser recognized signers of the declaration and give a report for a Lecturer’s program. See above (Lecturer)

Juniors – Leaders have a copy of the Junior pledge and have the Juniors sign it. Talk about the importance
of signing any document. Then touch on the importance of the Declaration of Independence.

FAC – Compare foods and methods of cooking of 1776 and today. Make an old recipe for a potluck
supper. Compare preserving foods yesteryear and today could be another topic.

Legislative – Discuss some of the topics such as taxes that lead to the Revolutionary War. Are they the
same topics we discuss today?

Sports – Have a picnic and play a game of croquet, an older game, or another of your choice.

These are just suggestions so use your own ideas also. Make it fun.

On another topic, think about the historical items you may have in your hall. You may have a charter that
might be signed by Oliver H. Kelley or William Saunders. Photographs of officers of bygone days are of
significance as they tell a story of the time. Some may have some Grange books of value such as Mentor
in the Grange and Homes of Patrons of Husbandry. Some Granges may have badges or unusual
equipment from years ago. All items of historical value should be preserved and taken care of. Historic
photos should have glass that blocks ultraviolet rays and be displayed out of the sunlight. Books should
be kept out of the light as well and in a dry space.
Many Granges are reaching the 150 year mark, so plan to mark the occasion in some way. This is an ideal
time to write or update your Grange’s history. Try to get some publicity on social media, newspapers or
radio. How about a podcast? There are numerous ways to celebrate, so have a banquet, a parade, a
special program about your history and plans for the future. Have fun.

Carol s. Bailey, Hisorian

3033 Middle Sodus Road
Lyons, NY 14489
315 946-4379

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