‘Upper Big Wood River Grange #192’ is the official name of what is commonly called the Hailey Grange, was formed in 1924 with 49 charter members. As we celebrate our “100th Anniversary” it is a good time to reflect on who has come before and how we are trying to keep the Hall active. The Upper Big Wood River Grange still counts some farm owners. Although most new recruits are not farmers, they are in some ways connected to the local food movement, gardening and seed saving. Community building is still ourfocus and we have kept this alive by holding contra and folk dances several times per year, along with organizations/individuals conducting dance, movement and wellnessclasses.
When our Grange received its charter in 1924, it was the third in Blaine County, following Carey and Gannett. D.J. Howes was the first President. In the early years newspaper articles reflect its prominence in the community. In 1926 our Grange held a joint meeting to discuss plans for a county-wide movement to advertise and improve the industrial advantages and scenic splendor of Blaine County and a crowd of 165 people attended. James Leichliter, president at the time, asked for cooperation of mining, agricultural, and business to co-operate with a neighborly spirit. In April of 1953 there was a great dedication of the Upper Big Wood River Grange with 122 persons present including members from all over the state. W.E. Adams, state Grange master presented a plaque to Rupert House, our master at the time. In 1957 this Blaine County Grange had a membership of 150, as Carey & Wendell had closed.
The Hailey Grange sponsors and assists social and civic organizations in the Wood River Valley. We serve 4H/FAA programs, Sawtooth Rangers, The Trailing of the Sheep Festival, the Wood River Seed Library, and give a yearly scholarship to a Blaine County High School graduate.
We have nearly lost our charter 3 times but have survived the tough times and are happy to still be here building community and friendship. An article in the Idaho Statesman (Boise), Nov. 18, 1926, sums up the spirit of Grange #192 – “A Mustache and Nightcap dance will be staged by the Upper Wood River grangers at the Grange Hall in Hailey, Thursday evening. Whiskers for the men and nightcaps for the women will be considered formal dress for the occasion.” Potlucks, dances and coming together for community events have been a constant theme at the hall.
