WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — The Williamstown Historical Museum presents a free lecture and panel discussion on the History of the Williamstown Grange and Grange Hall on Saturday, March 26 at 11 am in the Community Room at the Milne Public Library.

 

Alex Carlisle, who owns the Grange Hall on Water Street with his wife, Beth Carlisle, will talk about the past, present, and future of the building, followed by recollections from current Williamstown Grange President, Nancy Lescarbeau, and members Susan Bernardy and Maureen O'Mara.

 

The National Grange was founded in 1867. The Grange was formed in Williamstown in 1888. The building on Water Street was built in the 1930’s and in use until the Carlisles bought it in 2005.

 

Bernardy, the daughter of Grangers and one herself since she was 17, will be bringing some of her ribbons, won at the annual Grange Fair in September. 

 

"I so looked forward to that fair every year!," she said. "While we still do the rituals, discuss the state of the agricultural industry, and hold seasonal agricultural programs in our monthly meetings now, there used to be lots of social events – suppers, fundraisers, entertainments. It seemed like everyone belonged to the Grange back then, so there were always a lot of people at Grange events."

 

Both Carlisle and the current Grangers will have photos, newspaper clippings, and memorabilia on hand to share with attendees.

 

The Milne Public Library is located at 1095 Main Street, on the south side of Field Park at the northern junction of Routes 2 & 7 in Williamstown. Ample parking is available and the building is handicap accessible. For more information email info@williamstownhistoricalmuseum.org or visit the WHM Website www.williamstownhistoricalmuseum.org.