The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Recently, while in Washington DC Grays River Grange Master Krist Novoselic attended the 50th Anniversary of the Grange’s landmark building in Washington D.C. Grangers from across the country were in attendance to celebrate the occasion. Grangers were able to tour the building and attend a re-dedication ceremony held at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which is across the street from the Grange building. Along the tour, various items of Grange memorabilia dating back to the 1870s, including William Saunder's original ritual notebook, original regalia, and personal photos were displayed.

Dallas Tonsager, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, was the keynote speaker at the re-dedication ceremony and commended the National Grange for their history and dedication to advancing and supporting rural America. His speech was followed by a re-dedication speech from the Grange National President, Ed Luttrell, who reinforced the idea that the National Grange building belongs to all its members and stands as a testament to our great organization. Celia Luttrell, First Lady, on behalf of the Clackamas County Pomona #1, Oregon, presented a 50th Anniversary bronze plaque to the National Grange. The re-dedication ceremony also included a video presentation recorded by Mary Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of President Dwight Eisenhower, who originally dedicated the building.

The re-dedication ceremony was modeled after the original dedication ceremony 50 years ago. The dedication ceremony was presided over by National Master, Hershel Newsom with President Dwight Eisenhower dedicating the building and Secretary of Agriculture Ezra Taft Benson, there to witness the occasion. At the dedication ceremony, State Masters and National Officers from 34 different states, as well as 3,500 grassroots Grange members, were there to celebrate the occasion.

The entire day was one of jubilant celebration for all in attendance. Grangers from across the country reconnected with friends they hadn’t seen for months or even years. For many in attendance, this felt like a family reunion. There were even a few Grangers in attendance who had witnessed the original celebration!

Visit the Grays River Grange website for more on the 50th Anniversary celebration.

Upcoming Events: Primary candidate’s forum is scheduled for July 27 at Johnson’s Park. The forum will begin at 7 p.m. with emphasis on the 3rd District Congressional race and local election races.

Grays River Grange meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Locavore Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by a Business Meeting at 7:30 p.m.