Rochester Grange History

Rochester Grange #86 was formed on May 30, 1876, despite the objections of Cocheco Grange in Dover and Crown Point Grange in Strafford. Many of the Rochester residents belonged to one of these two Granges, but they wanted to have a meeting place that was closer to home.

            A group of 26 handy and determined men got together and held their first meeting in a hall on North Main Street, known as the Chase Hall.

            For many years they met in what was known as the Grange Building, where J.C. Penney’s Store was located. In 1945 they purchased the Unitarian Church on Charles Street.

            It was a struggle in their early years, just as life was a struggle, the reason for “banding together for a common cause.” One of the main objectives for the Granges was the formation of a co-operative store and they began their stock in July of 1876 with 25 barrels of flour, 20 of which were first grade and five barrels of second grade flour.

            The store boasted to one of the best in the state but lasted only about 12 years due, no doubt, to other stores moving in.

            Debates keynoted many of their early meetings and included such questions as “Does Farming Pay?” and “What Potatoes Are The Best to Grow?”

            They also debated on other timely issues of concern such as the abolishment of capital punishment. The final vote for this was “14 against and 13 for.”

            In the late 1800’s, Grangers became involved in Grange Fairs that were held in Tilton and Concord. Grangers continue to be involved. Rochester Grange has captured many a blue ribbon and their displays at the Grange Building at Rochester Fair, along with other Grange displays are always of top quality.

            Rochester Grange has the distinction of having 4 members become Master of the New Hampshire State Grange and two members that have been National Grange Officers.

            Each year Rochester Grange presents a scholarship to a graduating boy or girl who has been accepted at a post-secondary school. Preference is given to someone planning a career in the agricultural or horticultural fields, home economics or deaf awareness.

• Grange is one of the oldest Fraternal Organizations in the nation.
• Grange has been an institution in the State of New Hampshire for over 125 years.
• Grange is active in over 100 communities in the state.
• Grange offers programs for the whole family.
• Grange sponsors talent, photography, art, and writing contests.
• Grange provides much Community Service as well as programs on varied topics from education to health care and history.
• Grange remains committed to its roots in Agriculture, by promotion of Agricultural Fairs and Programs.
• Grange members work closely with child abuse and family domestic violence prevention programs. Food pantries, Adopt-A-Spot, and Mittens for School children are just a few of the many projects that granges are involved in.
• Grange offers many members benefits, including discounts on rental cars, air travel, eye wear, prescription drugs, etc...
• There is a credit card program.
• There are many opportunities for all members of the family.
• Grange members are involved in community service projects and legislative activities.
• Anyone over the age of 14 is welcome to join.
• There is a Junior Grange for children ages 5 - 14, with meetings, activities, and contests.
• The N.H. State Grange has donated thousands of dollars to The Task Force for Abused Children, and Child and Family Services of N.H..
• N.H. Granges have donated hundreds of stuffed animals to local Rescue Squads and Police Departments.
• In the early 1900's The N.H. State Grange pushed for legislation, to create the N.H. State Police.