Harmony Grange Records (Caledonia)
Scope and Contents
These records document the establishment and history of Harmony Grange No. 957, Caledonia, Illinois From 1874 to 1968. The main portion of the collection is a partial set of minute books (1878-1955) relating how farmers gathered to discuss improved crop-raising and marketing techniques. These books also detail the meeting entertainment activities which helped to create a cohesive feeling among farming families. Harmony Grange’s dedication to community service is illustrated by a community service notebook describing programs such as aid to retarded children and sponsoring youth groups. Financial data including grange expenses, dues, supplies, and community functions are contained in the secretary’s record, treasurer’s account book, a dues account book, and a roll book. The collection also provides information on the grange movement in two publications distributed by the National Grange Organization. In addition to the historical information available for the subordinate grange, a small portion of the records document the history of the Harmony Junior Grange No. 78 (1964-1968). Researchers should note that a Grange history is available in box 1, file folder 1.
Dates
- created: 1874-1968
- Other: Date acquired: 08/25/1980
Conditions Governing Access
There are no restrictions on access to the collection.
Conditions Governing Use
Property rights in the collection are held by the Regional History Center; literary rights are dedicated to the public.
Biographical or Historical Information
Deputy Sylvester Scott organized the Harmony Grange No. 957 with forty-six charter members on January 23, 1874. The members delayed choosing a master until their second meeting when they elected P. S. Doolittle. During its first seventy-five years, Harmony Grange met at various member’s homes, Harlem Consolidated School, and the Caledonia Town Hall. Harmony Grange dedicated a new hall on January 23, 1949. Primarily a social organization, the Harmony Grange sponsored picnics, dances, oyster suppers, and lectures. The grange also played a large role in community affairs by supporting a local Girl Scout troop and 4-H Club. In 1967, Harmony Grange, along with the North Park P.T.A., initiated a special education program in Harlem Township Schools. A highway safety program also was developed by the grange and adopted by the State of Illinois to protect school children walking home along busy thoroughfares.
Although membership has declined in recent years, Harmony Grange is still an important part of the local farming community today.
Note written by
Extent
1.00 Linear Feet
Language of Materials
English
Source of Acquisition
Mr. Edward G. Brown
Method of Acquisition
Mr. Edward G. Brown, Caledonia, donated the Harmony Grange No. 957 Collection to the Regional History Center on August 25, 1980.
- Title
- Archon Finding Aid Title
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- Undetermined
- Script of description
- Code for undetermined script
- Language of description note
- eng
Repository Details
Part of the Northern Illinois University Repository
Founders Memorial Library
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb IL 60115 US
815-753-9392
rhcua@niu.edu