What is the Grange?

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The Grange, officially named The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, is a fraternal organization in the United States that encourages families to band together to promote the economic and political well-being of the community and agriculture.

Founded after the Civil War in 1867, it is the oldest American agricultural advocacy group with national policy priorities.

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Throughout its history, the Grange lobbied state legislatures and Congress for the Granger Laws which reformed the railroads, established credit unions and cooperatives, established rural free mail delivery, and the popular election of US Senators.

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In 2005, the Grange had a membership of 160,000, with organizations in 2,100 communities in 36 states.

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The North Carolina Grange was officially recognized in 1875, but hit its stride after re-organizing in 1929.

Through local events, education, renewed community spirit, and the encouragement to be more tolerant of others with different political and religious beliefs, the Grange helped neighbors and communities come together. People received help getting on their feet through training and cooperative buying and selling among members.

Our members were instrumental in the development of the NC Department of Agriculture, the 4-H and Future Farmers of America and worked to ensure the vitality of North Carolina’s farming communities.

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The Grange continues to press for the causes of farmers, in addition to and in conjunction with issues of conservation, free trade, rural healthcare, immigration reform and energy independence.

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As a non-partisan organization, the Grange supports only policies, never political parties or candidates.

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