Day 154
10/15/22
Today, Ranger and I had the distinct pleasure of speaking at the Minnesota Grange 150th Convention. It was an honor to be asked, but it was also humbling to see the amazing people who keep this dream alive. Their commitment to farming and agriculture is to be admired. The Grange started when Oliver Kelley (his farm is between Anoka and Elk River) decided to start an organization where farmers could have a voice. That was over 150 years ago!
After I introduced myself and Ranger, I began with my family roots in farming. (With a maiden name like "Farrier," I know I had ancestors who were in the farming business!) My great-grandfather, James Farrier, was born in 1844 and eventually farmed up in Hassen, MN. Just west of Dayton and south of Elk River, I believe he was probably an active member when the Grange was young. This is the man who lost both legs in a snowstorm and, being creative, went into the artificial limb business.
His son, my grandfather, left the farm and became a harvester in his own right. O'shea Farrier was the Ice Man in Anoka and harvested ice from the Rum River. Using his draft horses, he delivered blocks of ice to the good citizens of Anoka who needed them to cool food in their icebox.
Mac and I were members of the Friends of the Kelley Farm for a number of years. The farm is now run by the MN Historical Society and countess visitors walk back in time to see how farming was done a century ago. There is also an addition of new farming techniques that was added on recently. We met amazing people in that group and learned so much about farm life.
After laying the foundation for my love of the outdoors and nature, I shared stories about my beloved Therapy Dogs. Ranger was front and center...until dinner was served and he couldn't figure out where HIS plate was! Even though his one loud bark of frustration had Mac escorting him out to the lobby, he returned to share his love with all of the members of this special group.
Initially formed in 1867, The Grange was an organization to support farmers in their cultural, social, political and practical needs. Bringing farmers together to support one another and advocate for farming on a national level was a new concept back then. I even remember an episode of 'Little House on the Prairie' where Pa Engels went to a meeting of The Grange!
The members of the present-day Grange continue to meet and focus on the roots of the organization. I felt somewhat comforted that such a group still existed AND that the members where such lovely, welcoming people. We need groups like The Grange to watch over this wonderful land we have been "loaned" during our journey.
Ranger and I thank The Grange for including us at their convention! The world is a kinder, gentler place because of you!!!
