Bartlett Grange No. 104 was established in November 1884 with thirty-one founding members.
Many Salisbury residents still recall the activities of the Bartlett Grange in its later years. It was once a vital hub for the community, promoting rural life, agriculture, and culture. The Grange hosted fairs, dinners, and various entertainment events.
For many years, Dot Bartlett played a key role in keeping the Junior Grange thriving and active in our town.
Some of these stories from Paul Shaw’s book, “They Said in Salisbury,” are shared through the link provided. Remembering The Grange
The Grange building, now widely recognized as the Academy Building, serves as a venue for Salisbury Selectmen and Planning Board meetings, along with other town-related activities.
A short history
The Grange, established on December 4, 1867, was originally rooted in agricultural teachings and became the first organization to grant women equal voting rights. New Hampshire’s first Grange was formed in Exeter in 1873, and today there are over 75 Granges across the state.
The Grange’s legacy impacts daily life, as it has spent the last century lobbying local, state, and federal governments on issues important to communities and individuals. These efforts have significantly shaped the American experience, influencing everyone from children to major corporations.
In the 19th century, Granges served as warehouse-buying clubs, eventually growing into a nonpartisan political force. This led to the creation of the Granger Laws, which remain relevant in antitrust litigation today. The Grange is also credited with the Rural Free Delivery program of the U.S. Postal Service. Valuing education, Grangers established local libraries to share books, many of which evolved into today’s community public libraries.
In New Hampshire, the Grange played a role in lobbying for a State Police Force and was instrumental in founding agricultural stations that later became the University System of New Hampshire.
Before modern conveniences like cars, telephones, running water, and electricity, Grangers were already advocating for the rights of rural citizens.