Loomis Grange still celebrates rural life

By Leah Rosasco | Loomis News Correspondent

A local organization that once championed farmers and ranchers is searching for its niche.

Since 1937, the Loomis Grange has hosted gatherings and events and represented the rural way of life, now it seeks to resurrect the sense of community it once fostered.

The Loomis Grange is part of the National Grange of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry, known as The Grange. It was established in 1867 for fraternal advocacy that focused on rural America and agriculture.

Kathy Stanley, who is a third-generation Grange member and its secretary, said membership was initially comprised of the local agricultural community.

“It was really an organization of farmers and ranchers who worked to help each other and support their way of life,” Stanley said.