About the Santa Ynez Valley Grange
We are the Santa Ynez Valley chapter of the California State Grange. Our mission is to foster fellowship and goodwill in our diverse communities through cultural, educational and social activities, support sustainable agriculture, and preserve the character and historical significance of the Grange building for those activities.
The Grange is both a family and a community service organization, where assisting the community is central to our mission. Our commitment to serving others extends to maintaining our Grange Hall as a space where people can come together, providing opportunities for connection and growth.
We are a non-partisan and non-denominational organization.
“Gift for the Grangers”, 1873 print promoting U.S. farmers’ organization. Image credit and more info: Wikimedia Commons.
Grange History and Current Leadership
The Santa Ynez Valley Grange No. 644 was organized and chartered in 1937. At that time the group met at the Santa Ynez Valley High School, and later in the Legion Hall in Solvang. The group began fundraising for a hall during World War II, by purchasing war bonds. Finally in 1950, after many fundraising dinners and sales held by the women of the Grange, the current hall was built for the sum of $12,800.
The Grange Hall has since served as the gathering place for group dinners, theater groups, musical performances, birthday and retirement parties, business and county department meetings and special events. The Hall is also home to a yoga group, Los Olivos Rotary Club, Lucky Clover 4-H Club, the Valley Wind Ensemble and the Los Olivos Branch Library that is open on Saturdays, 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM.
Longtime residents have memories of square dances and enchilada dinners at the Grange.
In September of 2013 a fire caused extensive damage to the Grange Hall and, as a result, much of the structure has been rebuilt, the commercial kitchen upgraded, air conditioning added and new flooring installed.
The Grange is a fraternal organization focusing on family and community with its roots in agriculture. Founded in 1867, the Grange is the oldest American agricultural advocacy group with a focus on communities. From inception in the 19th century, women have been recognized as equal members in the Grange. The family is the base of the Grange with full membership beginning at age 13 and a half.
Grange Leadership:
The Grange is governed by a board of directors, elected by the membership. Current directors and officers are:
- Carey McKinnon – Director and President
- Lynda Cummings – Director and Secretary
- Steve Berg – Director and Treasurer
- Dave Bemis – Director and Lector
- Rocco Roberts – Director and Steward
- Pearson Turnbull – Director and Greeter