Willowdale Grange Records (Fairdale)

Collection

Identifier: RHC-RC-080

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The records in this collection document the history of the Willowdale Grange No. 1773 from 1914 to 1962. Minutes comprise the major series (1914-1962) and detail the organization’s projects, agricultural concerns, legislative programs, social affairs and membership statistics. The quarterly reports also document membership changes. Secretary’s account books record dues and exnenses. Correspondence, community service reports, annual programs, and a scrapbook further delineate the Willowdale Grange’s concerns and programs. Some materials from the Illinois State and National Grange organizations provide a broader view of the grange’s commitments. Researchers should note that Box 1, Folder 1 contains a Willowdale Grange history.

Dates

created: 1914-1962
Other: Date acquired: 10/11/1979

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access to the collection.

Conditions Governing Use

Property rights in the collection belong to the Regional History Center; literary rights are dedicated to the public.

Biographical or Historical Information

Charles B. Chena and 52 charter members organized the Willowdale Grange of Fairdale, Illinois, the oldest subordinate grange in DeKalb County, on June 19, 1914. Herbert Jones, Ralph Protor, G. W. Meyer, and Bessie Strawn served as the first master, overseer, treasurer, and secretary, respectively. The group held bi-monthly meetings in the Woodman Hall until 1918 when the Upstone Hall became the meeting house for accommodating the increasing membership. As with other subordinate granges, Willowdale Grange supports various civic activities including sponsoring farm bureau presentations, health and athletic programs, harvest festivals, dramatic plays, and dances.

Note written by

Extent

1.00 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Source of Acquisition

Eunice Bailey

Method of Acquisition

Eunice Bailey, Kirkland, Illinois, donated the Willowdale Grange Records to the Northern Illinois Regional History Center on October 11, 1979.

Related Materials

Researchers should note that Box 1, Folder 1 contains a Willowdale Grange history. In addition, the Regional History Center holds a number of other northern Illinois grange collections (See Guide index).