By Melanie Lekocevic
Capital Region Independent Media
SELKIRK — The Bethlehem Grange is one of the oldest Granges in New York state and recently celebrated a major milestone — its 150th anniversary.
The Bethlehem Grange opened in 1874, and over the years has contributed to its community in a myriad of ways, from supporting the work of farmers to raising funds for not-for-profit organizations like the Lions Club, collecting food for area food pantries, supporting initiatives by local groups like Scouts, and more.
The Bethlehem Grange’s number —137 — signifies that it was the 137th Grange created nationwide.
“Today we are celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Bethlehem Grange No. 137,” said Secretary Jackie Schrom at a recent event celebrating the milestone. “We are one of the oldest Granges in New York state and one of the original in the country. Our number is only 137 — they are now into the thousands, so we are very proud of our position.”
“We are very proud of our Grange,” Schrom added.
Bethlehem Grange Vice President Charles Ryan said the organization’s contributions to the community have only grown over the years.
“In recent years, the Grange has meant a lot to the community because they are finding out what we are and why we are here — to help the community,” Ryan said. “Our motto is, ‘Thank you for helping us to help others,’ and that is very important to us.”
The organization’s president, Vernon Starr, said the good works of the Grange continue to this day.
“This is an exciting time for the Bethlehem Grange,” Starr said. “At the Grange, we find creative ways to continue serving the community and we strive to continue that empowering spirit to serve the community for the next 150 years.”
U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko, D-20, outlined the many good works of the Grange, from dinners in support of residents with cancer to food drives to supporting issues from broadband access and securing grants for local farmers.
“It’s nice to recognize 150 years of service by a nonprofit organization that is steeped in tremendous dynamics of grassroots activism, family values and community service,” Tonko said. “That three-legged stool is what quality of life is all about.”
Albany County Legislator Matt Miller, D-Selkirk, said he has lived down the road from the historic Grange building for 30 years and long wondered what the organization was all about. When he did, he was intrigued.
“It took a little while, but I did join — I’m proud that I painted all the doors on this building — and I am now a member of this Grange and proud to support farmers in the community,” Miller said. “I have met some great people here.”
The president of the National Grange, Chris Hamp, was unable to attend the ceremony because she was attending another 150th anniversary celebration, but Walter Hartley, president of the Rhode Island State Grange, performed the building rededication ceremony and read a letter from Hamp to the Bethlehem Grange.
“As you celebrate a century and a half of dedicated service to your community, it is a celebration of the generations who came before you, passing the torch of community stewardship from hand to hand,” Hamp wrote. “For 150 years, the members of your Grange have served as a beacon of strength with resilience and community spirit.”
“Through eras of change, challenges and triumphs, your Grange has stood as a testament to the enduring power of collective action,” Hamp continued. “Your journey is an inspiration to all of us.”
