Description
The Chico Grange was established in 1932 to give support and create opportunities for the rural and agricultural communities
of Butte County. The collection consists of organizational records for Chico Grange 1932-1993, including minutes, reports,
membership, correspondence, financial, journals, handbooks and scrapbooks.
Background
The National Grange or the National Order of the Patrons of Husbandry, founded in 1866 by Oliver Hudson Kelly, has a rich
history in building opportunity and bringing equality for farm and rural communities. It grew out of agricultural discontent
in the Middle West that focused on efforts to battle railroads and grain elevators. Since its inception this fraternal society
has worked toward the educational, social, and economic betterment of agricultural people, as well as for the welfare of all.
The National Grange has had significant influence on local, state, and national legislature, which lead to the passing of
the Granger Laws, as well as the first state and national control of all public utilities. It is a family organization and
brings together men and women of all ages. It was the first American association of any kind to work for equality and justice
for women, and the first to admit women with full membership equal to that of a man. There are five levels of Granges: National,
State, Pomona, Subordinate, and Junior. They all follow the organization, rituals, and programs set forth by the National
Grange.