Beaver Homes Grange Santa Workshop comes for two weekends

The Beaver Homes Grange is hosting its annual “Santa’s Workshop” this Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 13-14, and the following Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20-21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All ages are welcome and cost is $4 for those 13 and older and free for those 12 and under.

The Beaver Homes Grange has held the holiday event the past six years. The original inspiration was offering a local family event that didn’t break the bank for entertainment or Santa photo opportunities. The upstairs of the building is a maze decorated throughout with different Christmas scenes. There are even elves up there. There are also games to play, prizes to win, and the opportunity to take your picture with Santa. Even your pet can get a photo this year. Although pets aren’t allowed inside the Grange hall, we were told Santa will come outside to pose with your pup. Downstairs is a Christmas bazaar featuring local artisans and a cookie and hot cocoa station.

“The Grange” is a national organization that was formed in 1867 and designed to specifically support farming communities at local levels, especially in rural areas. According to the Oregon Grange, which was formed in 1873, “membership in the Grange was restricted to farmers and ranchers, and the Grange continues to focus on rural areas today, away from the glamor and renown of larger media markets.”

These community hubs are still in operation today, but many have evolved away from the deep agriculture roots and farmer membership and now operate as community centers. They’re kept alive by dedicated families, memberships dues, and volunteers who help keep the local history alive.

The Beaver Homes Grange was built in 1914 and is one of nine granges still in operation in Columbia County. The location hosts dinners throughout the year as well as the Rainier Jr/Sr High School History Club, including the annual historical reenactment activity, which is held onsite at the Grange building. In addition to the annual Christmas event, the non-profit hosts a popular Halloween haunted house. Profits from these events support the basic funding needs to keep up operations and building maintenance.

Beaver Home Grange Secretary Makenzie Sebring shared they are always looking for volunteers who want to help with the events or new members to join. Membership is open to anyone. Beaver Homes Grange is located in Goble at 31105 Beaver Homes Rd. For more info, visit the Beaver Homes Grange #518 page on Facebook.