History and present day

Post Civil War roots

The Ausable Valley Grange was part of a national movement that began after the Civil War, to bring the farm family and business out of rural isolation. Organizers wished to unite farm families in a fraternal organization that could collectively negotiate better prices for their products, and get the best prices for the products and services they needed to run their farms.

1903 beginnings

The Ausable Valley Grange No. 973 was organized in 1903 with 17 charter members. Early meetings were held in the Town of Ausable. By the end of 1903 there were 33 members with enrollment to grow to 245 by 1908. By 1914 the membership had grown to over 280 and the Horse Nail Factory counting building was purchased for a permanent home. The purchase price was $1,500.00 with a mortgage of $500.00. This circa-1840 stone building remains our home today.

Life in the early Grange

In its early years the Ausable Valley Grange was noted for its oyster suppers with hundreds attending each year to take part in the revelries. As time went on the event failed to draw the large crowds and eventually faded into memory. Beginning in 1915, the Grange instead organized Harvest Suppers, with auctions of donated produce to raise money.

As the years progressed Grange membership of farm families fell off. It become more and more an organization where fellowship and recreation were enjoyed by non-farm families of the village. Together, members sang played cards and shared meals. They assisted those in need. They improved the building, adding water in 1924. An electric stove was purchased in 1973. Live music and dance came to the Grange. In 2003 members raised money for building renovations, but by 2010 activity and membership began to slow. In 2021, the Grange re-energized once again.

Today

In the summer of 2023, the Ausable Valley Grange renewed its “good standing” status with the New York State Grange. At year’s end, there were 24 members and upward momentum. Activities such as workshops, lectures, music and tours now fill the calendar. Members once again share meals and fellowship. There are challenges ahead, but the Ausable Valley Grange is a dedicated steward of the historic building and organization passed on to us.

Current Officers

Sue Loomans, President
Benji Shankwitz, Vice-President
Lindsay Eberhart, Secretary
John Sokol, Treasurer
Maggie Carter, Lecturer
Skip Smithson, Musician
Holly Hillyer, Gatekeeper
Adam Wilson, Chaplain
Steve Pray, Exec Committee
Andrea Baer, Exec Committee