‘E3’? EXECUTIVE Michigan State MONTHLY COMMITTEE OQEE Grange, P. of H. VOL. 3.—-No. 1. . SCHOOLCRAFT, APRIL. 1877. Whole No. 25 THE GRANGE VISITOR, Is Published Monthly, AT THIRTY CENTS PER ANNUM, lnvariably in Advance. J. J. woonmn, - J_ T_ COBB, _ }Publlshing Committee. All communications should be addressed to J. T. Cobb, Sohoolcraft, Mich. Remittances should be by Registered Letter, Money Order or Draft Ofilcers Michigan State Grange. Paw Paw. M.—J. J. WOODMAN, - - 0.—P. W. ADAMS, - - - Tecumseh. L.—C. L. WHITNEY, - - Muskegon. S.—H. FLEMING, - - — Pontiac, A. S.——W. H. MATTISON, - - Ionia. C.—SALMON STEEL, Bear Lake. Manis’e Co SEC--‘L T‘ COBB, - - - Schoolcraft. T.—S. F. BROWN, - - - “ . G. K.—A. N. WOODRUFF, - Watervliet. CERES.-MRS. C. L. WHITNEY, Muskegou. POMONA—MRS. W. T. ADAMS, Grand Rapids. FLoR.A—MRs. J. J. WOODMAN, Paw Paw. L. A. S.—MRS. W. H. MATTISON, Ionia. Executive committee. J. WEBSTER CHILDS, Chairm’n, Ypsilanti. F. M. HOLLOWAY, - - Hillsdale. GEO. W. WOODWARD, Shelby, Oceana Co. SAMUEL LANGDON, Bowen Stat’n. Kent Co. 0. G. LUCE, - - Gilead, Branch Co, S. E. J EFFRES, - Okemos, Ingham Co. VVESTBROOK DIVlNE, Belding, Ionia Co. I. J. WOODMAN, J. T. COBB, - Ex. Officio State Business Agent. . J. H. GARDNER, Centreville, St. Joseph Co. Deputies. C. L. WHITNEY, General Deputy, Muskegon. H. A. DANVILLE, North’n Mich. P.0. Marllla. Wm. KILPATRICK, Lake Co. “ Baldwin City. ALBERT DAY, Wayne “ “ \Vayne. W. 0. SMITH, Osceola “ “ Crapo. WM. F, LEWIS, Oceana “ “ New Era. GEO. B. DELONG-, Monroe “ “ Monroe. IRA W. DONALDSON, Oakland “ W. 0. SMITH, Pontiac. Osceola Co., Crapo,lVIn’ste Co. R. M. Cox, in an address to Pomo na Grange, Jackson County, Indiana, says: “Co-operation should be the maxim of the Order. If one wheat- thresher will do the Work of a single township, unite and use it. If one will do the work of six farmers, co- operate and so use it, and save four- fifths in capital invested. Likewise co-operate in everything that will pay a dollar to the parties uniting and that is practical. We have too much invested in idleness. Whatever we buy we should pay cash for, and when we sell our products we should re- ceive cash. If we invest in steam powers keep the boilers hot by di- recting the power aright. ____________.__ —A library of 100 volumes of "stand- ard works might cost $200. Could any Grange do better than to estab- lish one for the benefit of themselves - and their children. Keep Manures in Summer. Most farmers lose the bulk of all summer fertilizers by suffering it to be washed away in the ponds and creeks, or else by allowing it to leach and lose the chief essential which makes plant-food, by exposure to the sun’s rays or the winds and rains dur- ing warm weather. Now, to keep manure made by soil- ing green crops or by feeding with dry food and grain, it is necessary to “fix” the valuable particles that naturally waste themselves in the surrounding atmosphere. To do this the farmer must turn chemist for the moment and see what other ingredients will neu- tralize valuable substances and hold them in the compost until they be- come plant-food. Fortunately We have a very cheap and common substance, viz: gypsum land-plaster, that answers this purpose admirably. Ammonia, carbonic acid, uric acid, phosphorus and nitrogen all have a strong aflinity for the sulphate of lime, or gypsum, and will chemically unite with it upon all occasions, and form a new composit or salts, that will not evaporate in the air very readily and can be used as one of the very best fertilizers for almost all classes of crops grown in the temper- ate zone. In order to make land-plaster avail- able, the manure should be heaped up; and whenever six to twelve inches deep, a good coating of “land-plaster” should be scattered over it, and ‘ the process continued during winter or summer, as long as the compost is be- ing increased. It IS best to keep the compost heap sheltered, to prevent unnecessary leaching ; but even with- out shelter, this treatment will pre- serve the greater part of the strength of the fertilizing particles of the ma- nures. Gypsum costs less than any other kind of fertilizer. As a top dressing for clover, corn, tobacco, wheat or grasses, and from its power of attract- ing ammonia, phosphorous, etc., from the atmosphere, adds more to the strength of the soil than any other fer- tilizer of equal cost. Millions might be saved to the country each year if our farmers would properly preserve all the ma- nures that can be made on the farm, and then skillfully use them. We only speak on this subject to awaken an interest in a source of profit that ought to be familiar to every farmer in the land.—Eac. Good Advice. “Make few promises. Always speak the truth. Never speak evil of any one. Keep good company or none. Live up to your engagements. Never play a game of chance. Drink no kind of intoxicating liquors. Grood character is above all things else. Keep your own secrets if you have any. Never borrow if you can help it. Do not marry until you are able to support a wife. Keep your- self innocent if you would be happy. When you speak to a person look in his face. Make no haste to be rich if you would prosper. Ever live (mis- fortune excepted) within your in- come. Save when you are young to spend when you are old. Avoid temp- tation through fear you may not with- stand it. Never run into debtunless you see a way to get out again. Small and steady gains give competency with a tranquil mind. Good com- pany and good conversation are the sinews of virtue. Your character can not be essentially injured except by your own acts. Ifany one speak evil of you let your life be so that no one will believe him. When you retire to bed think over what you have been doing dnring the day. Never be idle ; it your hands can’t be em- ployed usefully attend to the cultiva- tion of your mind. Read over the above maxims carefully and thought- fully at least once a week.” Grange Visitations. One of the most important move- ments yet made in this State since the organization of the State Grange is that just inaugurated in Erie County, and noted, in our columns this week, by State Deputy Kennedy and Brothers Everson and Wilson, viz : A systematic visitation of every Grange in that county. These visits will undoubtedly result in much en- couragement to the Grranges. and will draw the attention of farmers outside of the Order to its aims and objects, whereby much good will be attained. If the deputy of each county in the State will call to his aid two or three active Patrons, and follow the exam- ple set in Erie County, we may look for a general revival in the Grange.- Fa7'mer’s Friend. —“Many a miokle makes a muckle" and the small contribution of a million Patrons combined makes a vast sum, and the strength of will of a million Patrons an irresistible force. 3 . 1 v a 1 ‘ii 5% ' Grange 2 , _ TI-IE GRANGE VISITOR. Qastefs éepartment. J. J. WOODMAN, - - - PAW PAW. Constitutional Amendments. Since the publication of the last edition of the Constitution, the fol- lowing amendments have been ratified by the State Granges; and are now a part of the Constitution. 1st. The following has been substi- tuted for section 2 of article 7: ‘-The Secretary of each Subordin- ate Grange shall report quarterly to the secretary of the State Grange. the number of persons initiated since his last report, and also the number who, by death, expulsion, removal, or otlier- wise, have ceased to be members with- in th - same time; and shall pay to the Secretary of the State Grange such an amount of dues, on each member, and tees for each person initiated du- ring the quarter, as the State Grange may determine; provided that the State Grange may require such re- ports and payments to be made thro’ the secretaries of the Count y Grange.” 2d. The following has been added to section 2 article 1 : “Any 4th degree member in good standing, shall be eligible to ofiice or receive the degrees in the County, District, State, or National Grange, within whose jurisdiction such mem- ber may reside, but shall not be en- titled to vote.” 3d. Section 4 of article 1 has been amended so as to read as follows: “There shall be an Executive Com- mittee of the National Grange consist- ing of three members, whose term of office shall be two years. The Mas- ter of the National Grange shall be ex ofiicio, a member of the Executive Committee, but shall not be entitled to vote except in case of a tie.” THE following letter from the chair- man of the Executive Committee of the National Grange explains itself; and will be read with many regrets, by the Patrons of Michigan: COKESBURY, S. 0., April 11, ’77. J. J. Woodman, Esq..- DEAR SIR AND BRo.—At the recent meeting of the Executive Committee of the N. G., your letter was presented asking for the Lecturer’s time at some future period during the year. I was instructed then to Write you, _as I do now at the very first opportunity, and inform you, that the Committee have determined to send the Lecturer out no more, solely upon the ground of econo- my. His necessary expenses were a heavy draft upon the treasury; and as they were allowed to issue “ The Grange Record.” The Committee were unani- mously of the opinion, that the good of the Order would be better advanced by that instrumentality than through the continued services of the Lecturer. We trust you will agree with us. Fraternally, D. WYATT AIKEN. Bao. A. P. SHEPHERDSON, Master of Corey Grange, N o. 291, requests me to state, in addition to what I said in the last VISITOR, on the “Powers ' and Duties of County Granges,” “that thirteen members could have a Coun- ty Grange, although one thousand might oppose, and that 4th degree members cannot vote in a County 1 had supposed that these facts were so well understood by members of the Order, that to repeat them would be unnecessary. But in answer will say, 1st. That, under the laws of the Order, 13-eligible persons, duly - empowered. can organize a Subordin- ate Grange, although 100 may 0ppQSe5 “that 13 eligible persons, duly em- powered, may organize a County Grange, although a thousand may oppose,” that 15 eligible persons, duly empowered, may organize a State Grange, altough a hundred thousand may oppose; that 7 persons, without special authority, did organize, tem- porarily, the National Grange, and 23 eligible persons duly empowered by the State Granges, perlected and made permanent that organization, although one-half of all Christendom were opposed. 2d. lt is a well established principle in the Order. that a member cannot vote in an organization of which he is not a member. ' Cesar, March 2d, 1877. Bro. J. T. Cobb .- In looking over the VISITOR I find an article from the pen of our Worthy Master, that I can- not harmonise with the Constitution. It is in the July number or 1876. If I can have the priviledge, I should like to call the attention of Patrons to this subject, not that I wish to bias any one, I may be wrong in my conculsions, but I think it is every Patrons duty to compare views and weigh them by the proper standard, which in this case would be the Constitution. He says ‘fan impression seems to prevail among some of the members of the Order that Pomona Granges were institued by the Na- tional Grange to provide for a privileged class, who may assume control over the Subordinate Granges.” In reply to the foregoing he says: “So far from the above being correct, the~exact opposite is substantial truth.” Without com- ment on the first proposition, we leave the readers to form their own conclusions. On the second, which is this : “who may assume con- trol ovcr the Subordinate Granges,” we cite them to the Constitution which says : “Such District or County Grange shall have charge of the education and business interests of the Or- der in their respective districts, and,shall en- courage, strengthen and aid the Subordinate Granges represented therein.” We know of no way to understand the English Language only as it reads, and it is explicit. It is not they may, or can, but they “shall have, etc,” and if we are not wrong in our conclusions, if there is a Subordinate Grange which is not re resented therein, they will not receive aid an encour- agement from said Grange. Now we give our stand point as far as the fundamental principle is concerned. We are a Granger inside and out, top and bottom, right and left, fore and aft, but on the higher de- grees we are anti d'egreeist. The following are questions that should be considered by every Patron, for every Patron is interested in them: Are the higher degrees of any benefit to me ? Should I receive benefits, socially or pecun- iarly, that I could not receive without them ? Patrons let this be meditated upon carefully, and talked of in the Subordinate Granges, so that we may be prepared at the next session of our National Grange, to claim a right which we believe our law making department will grant us the right of petition. et petitions go up from the majority of the Subordinate Granges for_the abolishing of the higher degrees, and we believe it would be granted. Let the east and west, north and south, speak with the voice of petition at our next session of the National Grange. A. P. SHEPELEBDSON. I discover but two points in the brothers mild criticism which I care to answer. lst. If the readers of the VISITOR will turn back over the file a little more than a year and a half, they will‘ find the article referred to, which together with what appeared in the -last number, _will sufficiently explain this point, and convince every unprejudiced mind that the Subordidate Granges, through their represen- tatives to_the State and National Grange, can make and nnmake constitutions and laws, abol- ish the higher degrees and lower degrees, and County Granges, or the Order itself if they choose to do so. 2nd. The Constitution says : “District or County Granges shall have charge of the educa- tion and business interests of the Order in their respective districts and shall encourage, strength- en and aid the Subordinate Granges represented therein.” “Not may or can, but shall.” Plain English, no mistaking the language. Now sub- stitute “may” for “shall,” as the brother would have it, and see what a total want of positive- ness and business foresight the language would convey. “Have charge,” (not control) as an agent em. ployed or entrusted or commissioned to do cer- tain work, or perform certain duties; and the language of the Constitution, defining the duties to be performed by the County Granges is posi- tive and business like. The County Grange cannot control or interfere with the rights or business of the Subordinate Granges any more than the agent can control the business and trample upon the rights of his employer. The Subordinate Grange “has charge of the educa- tion and business interests of the Order within its ;'m'isdz'ction ;” and the County, State and National Grnnges have the same “charge” and similar duties to perform, in their respective jurisdictions. It is made the special duty of the County Granges to disseminate information and develops business for the benefit of the Subord- inate Grange, and I think they “may” encour- age, strengthen and aid Subordinate Granges not “re presented therein.” J. J. WOODMAN. Tons 0! Pepper, &c-. for the Pa.- trons of Pennsylvania- While in Philadelphia a short time since we called at the Pennsylvania State Agency, and in talking of the business interests of the Order, Bro. Gladding happened to mention that during the past year he had purchas- ed for the Patrons of Pennsylvania over two tons of pepper. We ex- pressed snrprise, when turning to his books we were shown many interest- ing figures, illustrating the constant- ly growing and large amount of busi- ness done by Patrons We found that among all the great variety of articles he badipurchased during the past year he had sent out : Pepper........... ......... ....21-7 tons. Starch .... .......... 1-10 “ Tea ........... 1-4 “ Soda ..... 1-6 " Tobacco” . . ........ ..6 1-3 “ Prnnes................ . . . . 1-8 “ Soap................... .... “ 1-3“ Coffee .41 1-2 “ Syrup............................100 “ Sugar . . . .210 “ Mackere1.. .... .... .........431 barrels. Salt to the amount of $5,277. Grass seed to “ “ 7327 Hardware “ “ “ 8,202 Boots & shoes “ ‘_‘ 6,733 Large as these amounts are of only a few of the articles purchased, they do not represent the full amount of any one article bought, as large quan- tities of goods are procured by Pa- trons visiting, the city direct of the merchants on “orders” given them by Bro. Gladding: For instance, Bro. Gladding’s books show that he bought about $1,000 worth of furniture of one firm for Patrons, While the books of the furniture dealer show that their sales to Patrons for the year amoun- ted to over $6,000, and the same holds good with nearly all other goods, thus showing somewhat the large propor- tions of the business done by Patrons in Philadelphia. . Bro. Geo. B. Borton, of the New Jersey Agency in Philadelphia, re- ports business steadily increasing, Patrons slowly but surely learning what has long been felt as one of the greatest needs of our Order before the full benefits of co operation could be attained, viz., confidence.—Farm- er’s Friend. THE GRANGE VISITOR. 3 English Co-operation. THE success which has attended the co operative efforts of the work- ingmen of England, has encouraged other classes to adopt similar meas- ures for the promotion of their inter- ests. From the extract below, which we take from a late number of the New York Graphic, it will be seen that another great co-operative en- terprise is about to be inaugurated in Great Britain. The G’-rap/zz'c says : “An immense co operative enter- prise has been started by meat con- sumers in Great Britain, consisting of a sort of Grange, with headquarters at Edinburg, having for its object the purchase at first cost of meat, vege tables and dairy products in the Uni- ted States for consumption in Eng- and, Scotland and Ireland. The point of attack is of course the mid- dlemen, whose services and salaries the new company will dispense with the beef which now sells in Liver- pool for 20 cents will then be deliv- ered at 18. This is all very well. An increase of good food for the million means an increase of wealth, health, comfort and culture. Now let us organize a company in New York, having for its Object the at- tainment of American beef as cheap as the Scotch can get it. Are we not paying 2 or 3 cents more a pound? It is likely that the interflow of sup- ply and demand will soon regulate this, either by cheapening the meat in New York or stopping the expor tation altogether. If not we will get up a benevolent society to import American meat from Edinburgh! The ocean freight is only 1 and 1-2 cents a pound, and this would enable specula=ors to deliver Illinois beel’ in Fulton Market via. Edinburgh at aboubt threecents cheaper than cur- rent prices. meat as cheap as foreigners can get it To Edinburgh we send up the Macedonian cry.” So the people of New York are be- ginning to feel the weight of the ex- actions of middlemen E It is not the farmers alone that suffer from this great evil. Let the Grange push for- ward their great enterprises, and the artisans and other consumers in the cities will soon be found battling with them to bring producers and consum- ers togethers, and reduce the vast army of middlemen, who, by combi- nation and concert of action, rob the laborer of the fruits of his toil, and increase the expense of’ the consum- ers.—Patron of Husbandry. —-A farmer need not be afraid of taking too many papers. They are good companions, both for himself and his children and may save him tenfold -their cost in a single sugges- tion. —Is there nobody who wants to pitch into the Grange now and rake it fore and aft. Some of our breth- .ren are getting lukewarm because they have no fight on hand to reuse them up. —Now is the time to subscribe for the VISITOR The third volume com- mences with this number. We want American, THE Goon PATRON.—The good Pa- tron is no ofiice seeker. He maintains that the oliice should seek the man. He does not discuss political ques- tions in the Grange, and strives out- side the gates to put down all bribery and corruption. He uses his influence to secure the nomination and election of competent, faithful and honest men, who will stand by the industrial population and work for their inter- est. The true Patron, in fine, is act- uated by one principle—the universal good of mankind, Third Letter from Brother Sessions. Worthy Secretary Cobb .- Another very bad habit to which I call the attention of my brother farmers, and one which will continue to keep them down and under, so long as they indulge in it, is the habit of allow- ing others to do their reading and thinking. In this land of free schools it is hardly possi- ble that a farmer has been allowed to grow up without learning to read. And the man that can read has the means of acquiring knowledge so far as he has inclination and leisure, yet it remains lamentably true. that there are very few well informed, intelligent men among far- mers. With here and there an honorable ex- ception, they neither read or think to any pur- pose, and if they have ideas or convictions they are often borrowed from parties whose interest it is to mislead or deceive them, instead of be- ing the result of careful thought and investiga- tion. It is not for want of time and opportunity, for every man can find time to read and think, and grow wiser every day, if he will, but it re- quires energy, determination and a resolute will to overcome indolent and easy habits. And to make the start, the labor and effort may be irksome until some degree of progress is gained when all becomes natural and easy. As the man improves in knowledge and in self-reliance he becomes more confident of his-own powers, and is more a man, and the more manly he be- comes the more successful and useful is he in every position in life. If he reads and thinks for himself, he is a better farmer, he knows bet- ter how to apply his means anl his labor to es- cape loss, and secure profit He is a better par- ent, he educates his children to make them val- uable and useful. He is a better citizen, be- cause he is fitted to perform the duties of citi- zenship with intelligence and discretion, and with some degree of wisdom. This is a matter so important that it will be farther considered. Anonzo SESSIONS. THE Executive Committee of the State Grange at a session in Febru- ary last, adopted the following pre- amble and resolution, and ordered them pubiished in the April number of the VISITOR: WHEREAS, The matter of wool rais- ing by the members of the Order in the State suffers from time to time in the marketing of their wool clips, through combinations of wool buyers and mid- dle men, and WHEREAS, The difficulties of estab- lishing a wool and asserting depot for the west, are found by us to be sur- rounded by insurmountable difficulties, therefore, Resolved, That we recommend the Order throughout the State, to take this matter into their own hands and through their Subordinate or County Granges or Councils, mass their wool, keeping each member’s by itself, or otherwise, having it put up in the very best manner, then holding the same open to the purchaser at what shall_ be deemed a reasonable and paying price. 0 Hon. J. J. Woodman, Master of the State Grange, Installed the ofiicers of Pomona Grange N o. 11, Newaygo County, at the Village of Newaygg, March 24th. The lecture delivered was very instructive and somewhat amusing. Brother W. can tell that shanghi story finely, and was listened to by an appreciative aud- ience for a. long time. Numerous questions were asked and answered for the benefit of Pa- trons. _ , Many things concerning the public revenues. laws of trade, and co-operation were clearly ex- plained, and at the close both visitors and Pa- trons considered their time both pleasantly and profitably spent, and hoped the speaker would come again. A. . Fremont Center, March 30, 1877. Bro. J. T. Cobb .- ' Keeler Grange, with a membership of only 58, have ordered and received of Day & Taylor, five car loads of plaster, a part of which was for farmers outside "the gates,” who have generously given their support to the Grange firm, al- though offered plaster cheaper else- where. Will order one or two more car loads this spring. Has any Grange in Michigan done better than this in regard to laster ? R. E. EITI-I, Sec’y. of Grange 159. Burns. CREEK, April 19, 1877. Bro. J. T. Cobb: Yours of the 17th inst., is received contain- ing information about seal, as requested, for which accept my thanks. You ask the time of our next meeting. We have held several meetings to complete a business organization, and get ready for work, and they have been somewhat interesting and enthusiastic. Our next meeting will be the regular quarterly meeting of the Association, May 2d. at 1 o’clock, P. M., at Battle Creek Grange Hall. Our Grange meets every Satur- da evening. Ve have formed a lecture course in our Grange. Some one of our members gives a lecture each month, at which time our doors are opened and friends who are not members, are invited to be present. So you will see that we are trying to keep the stone rolling, both finan- cially and socially. Dealers here in plaster have sold it one dol- lar less per ton than the Grange, but our mem- bers would not take the bait. And at the very time when they thought we were about ready to fail, they were surprised to learn that we were indeed a power. I think we have overcome here the reaction in interest occasioned by some unfortunate busi- ness matters, aud the members seem to be tak- ing new courage, manifesting new interest. and the future prosperity of the Grange in this 10- cality looks exceedingly cheerful. Come and see us. Yours Fraternally, H. B. HOAGLAND. GALESBURGH, April 17, 1877. Bra. .7. T. Cobb: DEAR SIR: —The three car loads of plaster consigned to me per order, I have just this day finished dealing out to the Patrons who order- ed. All agree it is of excellent quality and over weight. It has given great satisfaction. Have not at this writing got all collected in and have not time to get a. draft before the mail closes. Will send pay as soon as possible. H. DALE ADAMS. Letter from Lieut. Gov. Sessions. The following letter from Lieut. Governor Sessions was read at arecent meeting of the Ionia County Grange : LANSING, March 13th, 1877. BRO. MATTISON, Dear Sir :—I notice a call for a meeting of Ionia Grange and County Uouncil on Thursday next. It would please me much if I could be there, but imperative duties that I must not neglect or evade, will keep me here. I think there is nothing that the mem- bers of our Order need more than a good paper, and we have it in the Husbandman, published at Elmira, N. Y. If it could be brought to the knowledge of our people, and every farmer's family could have the reading of it weekly, our constant advancement and progress would be secure. It is truly a farmer's paper, owned by farmers, conducted by farmers in the interest of farmers. Edited by W. A. Armstrong and J. S. Van Duzen, both farmers, and the former Secretary of the N. Y. State Grange. I have read the paper carefully for more than two years, and I do not hesitate to recommend it as the best farmer’: paper that I have ever read, 11: is published weekly and each week it contains a verbatim report of the discussions of the El- mira Farmer’s Club, which is composed of live, ' wide-awake farmers, who are proud of their business, and who are laboring faithfully, ably and constantly to make it both profitable and honorable. I take and read several other pa- pers, but I will say frankly that no paper comes to my house that is more welcome to myself and to all my family, and not one that is read with so much pleasure or profit. Please attend the meeting if you can and bring the matter before those present. If you are not able to at- tend yourself, find some one that will. You may read this letter or take any other method . to bring the matter to the attention of farmers that you may deem advisable. , Yours -Truly. ALONZO SESSIONS. '6 4 THE GRAN GE VISITOR. THE GRANGE VISITOR. SCHOOLCRAFT, APRIL, 1877. :gerr_2tarQ’5 éepartment. J. 'r. COBB, - SCHOOLCRAFT. Oflicers and. members of Subordinate Granges in corresponding with this office, will please always give the Number of their Grange. BLANKS. Blanks that are sent free from this ofiice on application are: Blank Quarterly Reports of Secretaries of Sub- ordinate Granges. Blank Quarterly Reports of Secretaries of P0- mona. Graiiges. Blank application for Graiiges. Blank applications for Membership in Pomona Granges. Blank Bonds of Secretary and Treasurer. Blank Election Reports of Sub. Granges. Blank Certificates of Election to Convention. organizing Pomona the State Grange. Blank for Consolidation of Granges. Blank Application for Certificate of Dimit. Blank Plaster Order. Blank Certificate of Incorporation’. Plaster. The business of the season in this article is nearly over. Day & Taylor have made good their contract with the Executive Committee of the State Grange. The members of the Order through- out the State have been supplied at the contract price, in most instances with- out delay, and where there has been any delay it has been on account of not being able to get cars or in de- tention by railroads after shipment. except in a few instances where em- ders and put in the car the promised amount. In every case of complaint of shortage in weight I have been an- thorized by Day & Taylor to make such discounts as will be entirely sat- isfactory to the purchaser. The amount of plaster ordered has ported in September have neglected proved the fidelity of the great mass of Patrons to their obligations, and clearly shows that the situation was well understood by them. The attempt to buy up the Patrons . of Michigan for a dollar or two each has signally failed. To-day the Order is stronger in Michigan for having had to co-oper- ate together and meet a combination, that in a manner alike oifensive and dishonorable, attempted to extort an unreasonable price from the farmers of the State for a commodity consid- ered by many one of prime necessity. The result proves the value of co- operation. What could any one man or dozen men have done toward break- ing up that combination and securing reasonable prices and fair treatment from the association 9 So near noth- ing that the attempt never would have been made but for our organiz- ation. The Order has not been beuefitted in dollars and cents as much as the farmers outside “the gate,” though Patrons have paid less than ever be- fore for What ‘ plaster they have bought. ‘ County 1 directed to the Masters of the Granges Blank Certificates of Representatives elected to of the State’ is earnestly solicited. , a d The quality of the plaster has been Q n satisfactory, and the weight liberal,. As a direct result of our successful resistence to the demands of the Plaster Association, other farmers have bought their supply of plaster this year at a saying of from 20 to 50 per cent. The farmers of Michigan will this year buy as much or more plaster than usual, and will pay less for it by more than $40,000. The Executive Committee of the State Grange, by whose management this has been accomplished, are well satisfied with results so far. The Committee are also fully aware that it is not safe to stop here. The future of this important interest must be se- cured not only against “The Michigan and Ohio Plaster Association,” but against any other monopoly under another name. The co-operation of the members of the Order to carry out the-, pro- gramme as set forth by the circular The Committee, as they have here- ‘? tofore done, will take the lead in this new enterprise and I believe will do their whole duty. Brother Patrons, will you do yours ? Quarterly Reports. An examination of our books show that 45 Granges made no report what- ever during the year 1876. Such Granges are certainly dormant if not dead. It will be remembered that the Secretary of the State Grange is required to keep a list of Granges de- linquent more than one quarter in re- ports or payment of dues, standing in 1 the official paper of the State Grange correct the same monthly. Aside from the 45 delinquent for a full year, l find the following are de- Dloyees at the mill failed to obey or- 1 lmquent in “poms M the qnamer ending Sept. 30th, 1876, and some of them for the quarter ending June 30 : 36, 51, 54, 70, 103, 106, 120, 131, 182, 233. 240, 244, 245, -257, 300, 305 315, 324, 327, 349, 352. 361, 365, 396, 397. 393, 399, 412, 428, 449, 467, 477, 490, 507 524, 525, 541, 546, 560, 569, 572, 573, 576, 577, 586, 598, 615. Quite a number of those that re. to report for the quarter ending Dec. 31st. If reports are not received from them before the issue of May, these Will have to be added to the above list. _ That list is too large now—we shall be sorry to be compelled to make ad- ditions to it in the next Visiron. THE VISITOR. We receive some complaints that the VISITOR is not received—some of these come from subscribers whose time of subscription has expired Some from Secretaries who by a de- termination of the State Grange were cut off from receiving it free. Some from “Masters of Granges whose Seo- retary has never reported the names of Master and Secretary elect for 1871 to this office. All other complaints are no doubt well founded, and the mistake is, I presume, sometimes chargeable to this ofiice and sometimes to the ofiice of delivery. We can only say that we mean to keep this matter all in 800d shape, and mail every subscriber 1 On account of the extent, , a paper. of the plaster business for the last three months, I have been unable to give this matter much personal atten- tion. Any subscriber failing to get his paper before the first of the month following its issue, will be supplied promptly if we are notified of the fail- ure by card or otherwise. COUNTY GRANGES. There are now eighteen County or District Grange organizations in the State. The first was organized June 11th, 1875, the last'March 28th, 1877. Elsewhere we have a report from Ber- rien County Grange, No. 1, that in- dicates that the first one has in its business department been a success. I should like to hear from others. Let the Patrons of the State know through the VISITOR what is being done, and when and where quarterly meetings are held. Under the Rules of Organization, County Granges are required to meet once in three months and may hold intermediate meetings. Secretaries of County Granges are required to report quarterly to this office. Several of these lounty Granges have not yet been reported, and some that have reported have not done so uniformly. It becomes our duty to look after these matters, and We hope this reminder will be suffic- ient. We have just had printed another lot of “Applications for Membership” in County Granges. These are fur- nished free on application. ‘ CONSOLIDATIONS. VVe have been called upon from time to time for Consolidation Blanks. These have always been furnished. In several instances nothing more has ‘ been heard from them. - Herewith I give the consolidations as I find them recorded in this oflice, if any other consolidations‘ have been effected I desire returns should be made showing the fact. It is important that the records of this office be complete. They cannot be unless Secretaries of Subordinate Granges do their duty. N0. 99 CONSOLIDATED WITH. NO. 83 u 100 u u 83 H 195 “ 199 U 284 191 “ 2:10 63 “ 314 373 “ 392 583 “ 423 447 " 432 318 “ 433 440 “ 484 513 “ 535 534 “ 536 493 “ 547 562 “ 584 514 “ 161 270 “ 35 60 “ 184 183 “ 527 565 Do not forget that we invite cor- respondents from our brother farmers of the State uponany subject con- nected with the Order. Brief letters from Brothers and Sisters are always in order and eagerly read by every true Patron. Long articles containing abstract propositions or fundamental truths, are well enough, in fact, useful, but do not meet the wants of the great mass of the Order. Let us have short lively letters. Tell us anything that can interest, encourage and strength- en the Order. Even a brief state- ment of failure is not without its val- THE GRANGE VISITOR. ue. Write us what questions you have discussed in your several Granges and what conclusions were reached. The condition and pros- pects of the crops. Small as is the VISITOR, we will find room for a good many short articles, though we don’t . promise to print every thing we re- ceive. In a number of instances money or- ders have been received in envelopes without anything to indicate by whom sent or for what purpose. The last one received in that way was dated Ionia, April 4th, and calls for $5.10. Through the Post Ofiice we may find out the sender of an order. that comes in this way, but it is rather an un- finished way of doing business and I hope Michigan Patrons will all do better in the future. National Grange. The Executive Committee have se- lected Cincinnati as the place for holding the next session of the Na- tional Grange, which meets Nov. 21, 1877. The True Test. Success depends not so much on a Grange having a large membership as in the effectiveness of the members. Effective working is the true test. We all remember some little people who can walk clear around an over- grown, lubberly neighbor every hour in day. Granges of twenty wide awake, devoted members can be, and and often are, more at heart, Patrons of Husbandry than some similar or- ganizations with over 50 on the rolls. This is so in every state, and before we begin praising a Grange with a large membership, simply because the membership is large, we ought to compare it with some of apparently smaller growth. The cedar dosn’t grow like the hemlock, but which of the two do we prefer for our fence posts ? By the comparison it is not intended -to discourage the larger Granges, but to cause Patrons to look around and see for once, if they have not seen, that some of our brightest gems, as Granges, are the meek and humble ones ; who speak not of them- selves, but pursue an even tenor of way altogether charming. ‘ _._.__._._.____£_ THE Vermont Granges are gener- ally very prosperous. Bridgewater Grange has built a hall, costing near- ’ ly $4,000. South Shaftsbury Grange hall and store cost $3,000. St. Johns- bury has a very prosperous Grange store, which supplies the Granges in the country with dry goods and gro- ceries, and also purchases the farmers products and ships them to cities. Essex Center, Westford, Bondville, Ludlow, Cavendish and many other Granges have built halls during the season. Many other Granges will follow their example during the com- ing year. _ FARMERS of Lower Germany are organizing societies similar to the Patrons of Husbandry. A NUMBER of prominent English papers are agitating the Grange move- ment. ' 5 §e:tnr2r's @211 artmeut. c. L. WHITNEY, - - - MUSKEGON. New Pomona Granges. Since the State Grange meeting three County and District Granges have been instituted and another will be in being before this reaches the l readers of the VISITOR. i On the 9th day of February, in an- I swer to the proper application,we met l the VVorthy Patrons of Lenawee 1 County at Adrian. There was a large attendance and a general interest was manifest. We missed one brother and sister who are usually foremost in every good work pertaining to the advancement of our Order, and re-. gretted to learn that they had that morning lost their residence by fire A great deal of sympathy was ex- pressed for Brother and Sister Bush by those present, and a resolution of sympathy placed upon the records of the meeting. _ Little did Brother and‘ Sister Bush think, when they, at the State Grange were hearty in condoling with us, that we should so soon have an op- portunity to return their sympathy. Such times prove friends and develop fraternal relations. The following persons were elected and duly installed oflicers of Lenawee County Grange, No. 15, and with the large membership present, duly in- structed in the higher work of the Order. Master, Geo. B. Horton; Steward, H. S. Powney; Ass’t. Steward, H. B. Robb; Chaplain, J. L. Rummington; Treasurer, A. P. Kimball ; Secretary, James Cook; Gate Keeper, H. C. Brad- ish ; Pomona, Sister M. A. Briggs; Ceres, Jane Linsday ; Flora, E. H. Remmington; L. A. S., Carrie Brad- ish. Ex. Com. : Bro’s. E. A. Jordon, J. W. Baker and Martin Poucher. On the 15th of February we met the ‘members of the several Granges of Ionia County and duly instituted Ionia County Grange, N o. 16, with the following for oflicers, to—Wit : Master, Geo. Prey; Overseer, E. R. Williams; Lecturer, D. L. Wal- dron ; Steward, A. W. Sherwood ; Ass’t. Steward, Wm. Hixon; Chap- lain, H. Cheeney; Treasurer, W. A. Inman ; Secretary, M. M. Currier; G. K , E. Vance; Pomona, Sister W. H. Mattison ; Ceres, Sister H. Cheeney ; Flora, Sister A. W. Sherwood; L. A. S., Sister A. Hubble, also three Bro’s. who with M. and S. constitute the Executive Committee. The organ- ization was large and enthusiastic, and means business. We have just returned from‘ Trav- erse City, Where was held on March 22d, the Dist. Grange, No. 17, com- prising the Counties of Grand Trav- ers, Benzie and Lelanaw. Forty-four members were present and took part in the organization, and elected the following to office and they were duly installed and instructed: _ Master, D. C. D. Brooks ; Overseer, R. P. Latell ; Lecturer, W. W.Tracy ; Steward, L. A. Jennie; Ass’t. Stew- ard, V. T. Gardner; Chaplain, Sister Clara Ramsdell ; Treasurer, Wm. ' section. Rennie; Secretary, S. A, Gardner;. Gate Keeper, S. Franklin; Pomona, 1 Charlotte Brooks ; Ceres, J ulia Hyde ; Flora, Augusta Gardner ; L. A. S., Ettie Carter. Ex. Com. : Bro’s. Franklin, M. C. Cote and J. G. Rams- dell with the W. M. and W. S. In the evening it was our pleasure t'o meet and address a large and very intelligent gathering of Traverse Far- mers, and from their appearance and marked attention, we can confidently predict an onward movement in this This is confirmed by our visit with Bro. J. G. Ramsdcll to Silver Lake Grange, the following evening. The Grange and the neighboring far- 1 mers filled a large school house and showed an interest we seldom find. This Grange proposes to erect a Hall this season. Success to them. On the 28th of March the Patrons of Kent County to the number of 60 met in Grand Rapids, and after due deliberation organized a County Grange, and elected the following persons ofiicers : Master, Wm. P. Whitney; Over- seer, Smith Thorringtou ; Lecturer, M. B. Hine; Steward, H. G. Holt; Ass’t. Steward, Robert Locken ; Chaplain, Henry D. Medge; Treas- urer. Charles Dole; Secretary, W. R. Blaisdell ; Gate Keeper, John G. Berry; Pomona, Elizebeth Porter; Ceres, Huldah Mills; Flora, Mary J. Tubbs; L. A. S., Jane T. Whitney, and an Executive Committee of three ‘ besides the Master and Secretary. In the evening the Degree of P0- mona was conferred in form and the ofiicers duly installed. This County Grange meets at Harmony Grange Hall once in four weeks. HY proposal in the last number was at hand rather late, yet many have availed themselves of it. Thanks to them. I will continue the offer until July 1st, to all who wish seeds or plants, small fruit. etc. We wish to remark for the benefit of a few members who are not very well “up” as yet on the true intent and meaning of some of the doctrines of the Order, that the clause in our Declaration of Purposes, which reads that one of the objects of the Order is to discountenance the credit system does not mean the credit system sim- ply as practiced by others, butalso as racticed by ourselves. It is of course highly desirable that we should so far as possible, discountenance every- thing like a credit system on the part of those who buy of us. Indeed, the advantages of selling for cash are so readily apparent that, perhaps the merciful reader will excuse us from stopping to enlarge upon them. But the benefits of buying for cash seem not to be so readily discerned, They are however, just as real and just as numerous as those of selling for cash. And since they are so, the founders of the Order made the discounten- ancing of the credit system in our transactions as well as in the transac- tions of others, one of the specific ob- jects of our organization.-— Grange Bulletin. —The best Granges are not in the villages, but right back in the coun- try where the potent sneer of some pert counter jumper is not felt and the pleasures of lounging about the stores can’t be indulged in 3 THE GRANGE VISITOR. ‘gist: ggeufs gepartment. CENTREVILLE. J. H. GARDNER, - - The Grange News of Illinois says: “That if some pretended Patroiis fall by the way, lured ofl” by the mer- chants or smooth talker in the little village, let them go back to their ‘flesh pots.’ They are men who will do you no good because they are only fit to follow their masters, and the Grange only wants men who Will think for themselves. It would be a great advantage to our cause if those who still pretend to be Patrons, could be got clear oil‘. They are in almost every Grange, op- posing every measure which is brought up for the good of the Or- der. They never join in any purse which is made up to send off for sup- plies. and go and tell the village mer- chant who credits them, and use their agents prices only as a lever to beat down thelocal dealers. “Keep out of debt I” “Keep out of debt!” Nev- er spend money until you have it, and then co operate with your neighbor and get what you want. , The man who spends less money than he makes ends in competency, While the one who loves credit, lives hard-up and is in straightened circum- stances, with his farm mortgaged, and sometimes sold out by the Sheriff, compelled to turn up as a local poli- tician, seeking for some office or want- ing the State to maintain him. There- fore keep out of debt. Some manufacturers do not like to have their names and terms published as they have trade with dealers which they want to keep, but are willing to send out their wares on my orders. I believe that I have now arrange- ments sufiicient to satisfy all for plows, culivators, wagons, carriages, hay rakes and small tools for the sea- son. ’l‘he Jonesville, Mishawaka. Battle Creek and Buckeye chilled plows. The Diamond Iron, steel mold-board and steel plows ; also the Union City plow together, must suffice for all kinds of work and soils. I have made a purchase from the Day- ton Machine Company of hay rakes to be sent here Soon, so that I can furnish at once on receiving orders, all that may be needed in the State. The new Victor self-dumpin g rake is equal to any made. Wagons are $58.00 each, not $85.00 as published in March Visrron, and good as made. Carriages of all descriptions can be had at Grand Rapids, Elkhart, Niles or Buchanan. Mr.’ P. Warner, of Bronson, offers his fanning mills at wholesale prices. This mill is first- class . in every respect, and I can re- commend it to clean all kinds of grain and seeds in a superior manner. and all orders sent me will be filled at astonishing low prices. Don’t forget when our sisters -want" a new sewing machine, to try the Home, which is sent for twenty days examination, and if not satisfactoiy it can be returned It is warranted to be kept in repair for five years free of charges. If any brother wanting a reaper or mower would let me know soon I could contract for them if I can be , assured they will be taken ; I can not buy machinery as I have done for members, and have to send it out of the State for sale, or keep it on hand. Prices on goods vary daily, and the 2 price one week may be quite difl”er- ent from a preceeding week. My contracts are now such that I can buy anything to be had in De- troit or Chicago at market rates from wholesale houses, if the order is suf- ficient size to be sent there. Join to- gether and bulk your orders, so as to get the lowest prices and save on freight. The railroads charge as much for a package of twenty pounds as for a hundred pounds ; remember this and be guided accordingly. I am buying Weekly all kinds of domestic dry goods at Chicago, and can fill orders for nearly everything in that line, if samples are sent me of the articles wanted. In sending money, if convenient, get a post ofiice order on Three Riv- ers or a N. Y. bank draft, and always state in your letter accompanymg, the amount sent ; give post ofiice and rail- road station if different. State plain- ly what is wanted each time you write, don’t expect me to remember your name or what I may have written a week.past, to you, for in a correspond- ance of from forty to sixty letters daily, I can’t say what I may have written to each one on the previous day. Refined sugars have declined some- what, while New Orleans clarified are firm and advancing in price. This is owing to the large adulteration prac- ticed at the refineries, by mixing glucose with true sugar. Coal Oil is now 22 to 25cts. a gal- lon for Michigan test, inspected oil. I have a short price list now ready to be sent to Secretaries and Masters as soon as I receivea list of the names; also to any person requesting it un- der the Grange seal. P. D. Wetmore, the agent at New Orleans, has failed, I am informed; and it anything is wanted from there, send to me, as I have dealings with a wholesale house in the city 01 whom I have always got good articles at fair rates and orders filled promptly. I have a few iion beam chilled plows on hand at $8.00 for plow and clevis or $11.00 for plows, clevis, wheel and jointer, which I desire to close out. They are in good order and good plows, and to those that use iron beam plows, will give satisfaction. Four ton scales from the Chicago Scale Company can be had for $55.00 at the manufactory, and small scales at proportionate prices. I have had one in use tor two years and find it to be a good scales. I shall hold gi anges responsible for orders under the seal and expect prompt pay when goods are sent with- out money with the order. . -—Im_mense progress in knowledge on sub_]ects connected with political economy has come from Grange dis- cussions, especially upon all subjects of _finaueial importance, taies and tftI‘1fl'b', and the Ways and means of get- U118‘ m0I1ey to run the machinery of g0Vernment. Much yet can be learn- ed on these subjects before the peo- ple can dictate to tricksters What the masses must have as their dues. Qummanicafians. Stand by the Constitution. A great many questions are being asked, and some very difficult ones too, and one especially, in regard to the in- itiatory fees of the Grange. In this sec- tion of the country there are a great many that would like to join the Grange if the fees were reduced a little, and we are quite frequently asked why they are so hi b. If tghe enquirers would only stop for a moment and think, they would find that they are small compared to other organizations. Members of Granges are apt to give this question too much im- portance, many look only to numbers, but I do not. It is not the great num- bers that give strength to the Grange. Numbers are all right providing they are all thorough workers. For my part I had rather have ten live members than one hundred and fifty dead ones. Well, says one, “here is a man that I think would be a help to us, but he says the fees are too high,” when at the same time this same individual is spending every year, more for tobacco and intox- icating liquor, yes a great deal more than would pay the initiation fees and the monthly dues for five years. Is this not true ? Certainly it is. Now these people say, “if you will reduce the fees a little we will come in. Now, I say to all, stand by the con- stitut-ion, for it is the only sure Way to success, and if persons offering them- selves after we have borne the burden during the heat of the day, started the machine and kept it running until now, if they can’t pay What the constitution demands that they shall pay, I say let them stay out. We don’t want them, for they would only be a damage to us, and would soon be on the list of delin- quents. In conclusion, I would say, stand by the constitution, and prosperity will crown our efforts. I would say one word of encourage- ment in regard to Crapo Grange. We are in the best working order that we have ever been. Our number is small, but what there is of us, is all Granger. VVe are progressing step by step and are bound to succeed. Yours &c. A. MIDGLEY, Sec’g., Crapo Grange, No. 363. W orthg Brother .- Harmony Grange, No. 337, is still thriving, we have 134 members and a prospect of some more soon. We are trying to perfect our organization, and advancement is our motto. Last Saturday we presented our Past Master, Bro. Smith Thorington, with a pair of silver goblets. They were pre- sented by Bro. E. M. Bollard, ex-Sec- retary, in behalf of the Grange, and a neat and appropriate address made on each side. We hada good time and what is still better perhaps, on Monday, Feb. 26th, we visited the premises of a widow member of our Order, armed with axes, saws, and teams, and soon turned the big trees into stove wood and, hauled the same to the house. Last fall We invaded another widow's premises and cut and hauled about twenty-five cords of wood to her door. Strange to say, this widow got married soon after, and donated aportion of her wood to widow number two. If this is the natural reault ofa chopping bee, we shall soon have no widows in our Grange. Yours &.c., ’ A GRANGER. SILVER LAKE GRANGE, No. 624. Brother J. T. Cobb .- We feel encouraged in the good cause. Bro. C. L. Whitney organized a Dis- trict Grange at Traverse City, March 22d. in which we take a lively interest, although the youngest Grange here, be- ing less than a year old, we were among the first to act in getting the District Grange organized. We still .have all the members we GRANGE VISITOR. 7 ever had and all work well together, there has been no discord yet. We have taken measures to build a Hall the com- ing summer, have part of the material on the ground and all are active in the matter. We are getting new members occas- ionally, and all come to stay. We find your paper a most welcome visitor, both in the Grange and at the fireside, we only wish it could come oftener. Brother C. L. VVhitney gave a public lecture to our Grange March 23d, which was spoken of in warm terms by all that heard it, and the house was full. The Granges around here have seem- ed to take new life this winter. All are more active than usual, and we look confidently for the general prosperity of -the Order in these parts. T. H. CLYDE, Lecturer. BERRIEN SPRINGS, April 2d, 1877. lVorth,y Secretary .- It may be of interest to Patrons of elsewhere to know what the Grangers are doing in South-western Michigan, therefore I will pen a short article con- cerning the progress of Mount Tabor Grange, No. 43. We have been holding Grange Meet- ings in private houses ever since our or- ganization and our Grange has had a slow but steady growth. We came to the conclusion that a Grange in order to prosper must have a fixed and permanent home, and there- fore resolved to build us a Hall. We have raised the necessary funds for building a Hall 2} by 50 feet and 24 feet high, to be completed by the first of June. This Hall will be built in the country on the corner ofa good Granger’s farm. Three» uarters of an acre of which is the onation of Bro. Burns Helmick. - Our Grange in Berrien County do most of their trading through the co- operative store at Buchannan, owned and controlled -wholly by Grangers. Brothers and Sisters of the order, if you desire to make the Grange a per- manent success: 1st. Establish a co—operative store in your county. 2d. Build a commodious Grange Hall on a permanent foundation, and show to the world’ that Grangers mean busi- ness. VV. J. JONES, Sec’y. Resolution of Farmington Grange, No. 267, on the milling question. WHEREAS, The Laws of this State provide that the occupant of any grist mill shall weigh any grist when receiv- ed at, or delivered from his mill, if re- quested by the owner, and VVHEREAS, We feel that many times We do not received what is ourjust due therefore, be it Resolved, By Farmington ' Grange, No. 267, that we will hereafter require that our grists shall be weighed when received at, and when taken from, any grist mill, and that we recommend this practice to our Brother Patrons. ' Yours Fraternally, A. J. CROSBY, Master. MOUNT CLEMENS, March 22, 1877. Bro. Cobb .- Enclosed you will find P. 0. Order for dues and fees, $3.56 and $1.20 for four copies of the VISITOR. I will say a few words in regard to Chesterfield Grange. We claim that we have as good men and women in our Grange as can be found in the Eastern part of Macomb County, and feel that We are able to fully carry out the principle of the Order. We have good interest- ing meetings and well attended when the weather will permit. We are buying our goods within the Order. We started with $100.00, and in four months we bought nearly $500 worth of goods with a saving that is satisfactory. We are looking to our Ex- ecutive Committee to do more to open up methods of business that will induce members to sell within our Order. We felt somewhat set up as a new Grange, to have the Macomb Council meet with us. VVe had a very‘ interest- ing meeting. The Council passed a resolution to support Day & Taylor. Fraternally, J. W. ALLEN. BERRIEN CENTER, April 1877. Brother Cobb .- ' I wish to report through the columns of your very acceptable Grange VISITOR the progress the Patrons of Berrien County are making in the business of co-operation. Our Store at Buchanan has been run- ning about nine months, with a capital of less than $2,000. Our sales for the last month average over $100 per day, and are steadily increasing. Our busi- ness is entirely satisfactory. Our suc- cess is assured, by reason of our concen- tration of trade and a determination that we will succeed. VVe shall put an agent of experience in Chicago this season to sell our suplies and products, and buy as ordered. Fraternally, THOMAS MARS, Master Berrien Co. Grange. OVID MICH., April 9th, 1877. Bro. J. T. Cobb : It seems strange that so many Patrons can get along without taking a Grange Paper. As knowledge is the basis of progress, it is highly important that the Patrons of Husbandry should kindly foster and protect whatever is calcalated to throw light upon their path. lt is a hopeful feature of our Order that it is well supplied with newspapes, these papers are well conducted, being divided into various de- partments, each of which are especially devoted to some particular interest, as the Grange—the farm-the household-—the fire-side—the family ——the markets, etc., and are calculated to fur- nish the farmer and his family with good in- structive reading, while the material interests of our Order Will be advanced by keeping its members posted with regard to what it is ac- complishing elsewhere. The present financial pressure is hearing heavily upon the various industries of the country, and I fear that many of the members of our Order are overlooking the fact that this pressure is being sensibly felt by the conductors of newspapers as well as those who are engaged in other pursuits. The publication of a news- paper is attended with a constant expenditure of money, while its editorial duties involve a life of unremitting toil and care. The position of an editor is very similar to that of a mother who is burdened with the constant care and re- sponsibility of a large family. It is a life of in- cessant toil, care and anxiety, and when the work is well done it should not only be ap rec- iated, but should be paid for with commen able promptness. Do not understand me to say, take every Grange and Agricultural paper that is printed, but give a liberal and cheerful support to such as have claims on you—to those conducted by men of broad views, who are valiently doing battle for the right, and recognize in our noble Order a means of securing social, educational and material blessings to the farmers of Ameri- ca. O. A. CARPENTER‘ Master Ovld Grange, N o. 156. Am>IsoN. MICHIGAN. Bro. Cobb; I send you a few more notes from Rollin Grange, No. 383. Heretofore we have purchased but little from the State Agent, but at our last meeting the subject was discussed and the following resolu- tion was passed : Resolved, That we make all our purchases when possible through the State Agent. The reason that we have not done so before is that we have had arrangements with a retail grocer, so that we could get some supplies at reason- rates. The plaster question was discussed and a re- solution adopted pledging ourselves to stick by Messrs. Day & Taylor, and we shall order a car load immediately. Some outsiders have said that they would give 50 cents more per ton for Grange plaster than for any other, for they know that if the Grange Plaster Mills were closed they would have to pay seven or eight dollars per ton for all they will want in the fu- ture. If they want our car load we are going to let them have it and order some more for ourselves. The GRANGE VISITOR has quite a circulation among us, there being but few members who do not take it, and in a short time I expect all will take it. Those who now take it say they would not be without it for double its price. Enclosed you will find 60 cents for two copies, and you may expect more soon. Fraternally, Oscan WING, Sec’y. SILVER LAKE GRANGE, No. 324, P. of H. Bro. J. T. Cobb : I see by the GRANGE Vrsrroa that we are one of the baby Granges, but we are lively as young crickets. We all take a deep interest in the Grange, and in the good of the Order. We meet once in two weeks, at 2 o’clock P. M., and night always comes too soon for us. We have a good attendance. We are preparing to build a hall the coming season. Some members that feel too poor to contribute money to even fence a grave yard, will do all they can freely to help build a hall. Such is the spirit we have in this matter. VVe are doing all we can to get a District. Grange organized up here, so we of the Grand Traverse country, can work in concert, in both buying and selling. We have long been op- pressed by a monopoly here, and the same mons- ter lives yet, although crippled considerably by the Grange movement, If we can act in concert under an organized head,we can do our busi- ness independent of a firm that have grown im- mensely rich, while the population that have dealt witn them from a. matter of necessity (for there was no other place to deal), have just barely lived. Fraternally, Traverse City. '1‘. H. ALZALE, Sec’y. THE REAPER DEATH. On Feb. 8th, 1877, Brother James W. Morgan after a long illness or great sufiering, aged 51 years. M. A. HOLCOMB, Sec’y. Bowen Center Grang, No. 211. On April 11th, Vergennes Grange, No. 221, adopted a preamble and resolution, expressive of its sorrow and loss by death of a worthy sister, Ida Hogan. In the death of Sister Louesa Wedge, Alpine Grange, No. 348, has lost one of its brightest ornaments. Our charter is draped in. mourning. Our hearts shrouded in sorrow. 9 CLEOME PRESTON, JOHN PREsToN, Com. ‘The Husbandman.’ rim BEST FARMERS’ PAPER IN THE COUNTRY! ' It is the Most Influential and Widely Read Journal pub- lished in the Interest of the Grange. AS All AGRIGULTURAL PAPER It is f7;es/2. and practical, and its read- ers in all parts of the country gjve it high praise. The Reports of the ELMIRA FAR- MERS’ CLUB DISCUSSIONS Are alone worth more than the cost of the pa- per, to any practical thinking farmer. It is read and endorsed by the principal offi- cers of the Michigan State Grange, and by hundreds of Farmers in various parts of the State. Lieutenant Governor Sessions has been a subscriber for nearly three years, and gives the paper high praise. He has freely recom- mended it to the farmers of his county, and has induced many to subscribe. THE HUSBANMAN is a large eight page neatly printed Journal, and is first class in every respect. IT IS ONLY_ $1_50 PER YEAR, INVABIABLY IN ADVANCE. From May 1st, 1877, to Jan. 1st, 1878, Only 3 1 .00. Forward subscriptions immediately. Address, “HUSBANDMAN,” Elmira, N. Y, J8Pfl||(““°°l'd) Oolon Wk‘ YJI so ‘I- g Good, . . 30 Good, .g.( 35 Good,y. .n.(p4ci Fine, . . 40 Fine, . . 45 Fine, . . . 55 m Finest, . . 55 Finest, . 60 Finest, 70 Best,. . . 70 Best, . . 75 Best. . . . Cash less 5 per ct. samples mailed free. Send ad- . dress on postal cardtol’. 0. Box 3090, NewYork. -u 8 THE GRANGE VISITOR. PRICE LIST of SUPPLIES Kept in the omce or the Secretary of the MICHIGAN S TAT E GRANGE. And sent out Post Paid, an Receipt of Cash Or- der, over the seal of a Subordmate Grange, and the signature of its Zllaster or Secretary. Ballot Boxes, (hard Wood,) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 2.‘) Porcelain Ballot Marbles, per hundred,.. . 60 Blank Book, ledger ruled, for Secretary to keep accounts with members, . . . . . . . . . . 1 00 Blank Record Books, (Express aid), . . . . . 1 Order Book, containing 100 Or ers on the Treasurer, with stub, well bound, . . . . . . . Receipt Book, containing 100 Receipts . from Treasurer to Secretary, with stub, well bound, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blank Receipts for dues, per 100, bouud,. . Cushing’s Manual, . . . . . . . . . . . . . .‘ . . . . . . . . Applications for Membership, per 100, .. . . Membership Cards, per 100, . . . . . . . . . . . . . Withdrawal Cards, per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . . . Illustrated Visiting or Traveling Cards, each, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dimits, in envelopes, per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . By-Laws of the State and Subordinate Granges, single copies 5c, per doz.,. . . . . New kind of Singing Books, with music, Single copy 15 cts. per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . . Rituals, single copy, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “ per doz., . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blanks for Consolidation of Granges, sent free on application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blank Applications for Membership in P0- mona Granges, furnished free on appli- cation. Blank “Articles of Association” for the Incorporation of Subordinate Granges with Copy of Charter, all complete,. . . . . Patron’s Pocket Companion, by J. A. Cra- mer, Cloth, 60 cts., Moracco with tuck, . 1 ‘Notice to Delinquent Members, per 100. . . Address, J. '1‘. COBB, Sac’r MICE. Sure GRANGE, SCHOOLCRAFT. MICH. The Whitney Ma.nui’g Co. IS THE ONLY COMPANY That offer A§Strictly First-class Sewing Machine to Patrons at Wholesale Prices. B. E A 1) : I have sold a large number of Whitney Sew- ing Machines during the past year, 1876, and they have given universal satisfaction. I rec- ommend them to Patrons. W. A. HENDRICKS, Ill. State Agt. Have sold a large number of them and have sufficient testimony from purchasers to assert them equal if not superior to any made. L G. KNIFFEN, State Agt., Wis. Sold 994 Whitney Sewing Machines in six months, with privilege of returning them if not satisfactory. Was not asked to do so in a sin- gle instance. A. TYNER, State Agt., Ind. All letters received at this Agency speak in the highest terms of praise of the Whitney Sewing Machine. J. D. GURTHBIE, State Agt. for Ky. and Tenn. In view of the extensive and satisfactory bus- iness we have done with this Co., Patrons should buy no other machine. A. J. CHIEDS, State Agent, Mo. Our State Agent, Col. Hill, reports his sales of the Whitney Sewing Machine for the past year at 896,000.00. Indiana Agent reports $86,- 4€:33.50, making the total for two States $182,- 463.50. If Patrons in other States appreciate the Whitney as well as We do, it may well be called the Grange machine.—Grange Bulletin, 0. We send machines anywhere on trial. It wil‘1 cost you nothing to try them, if they do not suit you, and they are sold at the lowest figures possible. Send for Circulars. THE WHITNEY MF’G C()., 22 Adams St. CHICAGO. ILL. The Mentor in the Grange ,--AND? I-IOIVIES of P. of H., Ought to be in every Grange and read by every member of our Order. Price, $2.00. Four copies for $7.00. The “ Ma.tron’s Household Manual,” By SISTER SEANKLAND, is the best Cook Book known to us. 75 cents each; four copies to one address for $2.50. One copy of the “ Men- tor” and one copy of the “ Manual” for 82.50. Address, 0. L. WHITNEY, Mulkegon. PARTIBULAR. MONGOMIERY WARD 65 00., The Original Wholesale GRANGE SUPPLY HOUSE 22" CE 228 VKKAEASII AVENUE, JOBBERS IN IDRY'GOODS,CLOT IIWC}, Hats, Caps, Trunks, &c., &c. CATALOGUES AND PRICE LISTS OF ALL OUR GOODS FREE TO ANY ADDRESS ON APPJiICATION._ A Great Reduction in the Prices of Many Lead- ing Goods Was» made Jan. 1st, 1877. §' SEND ALSO FOR SPECIAL LIST OF REDUCED PRICES. MONTGOMERY WARD 85 CO., Opposite the Matteson I-Iouse, Chicago. P _'I'HE PA'1'RONS' PAINT COMPANY are manufac- ‘ ‘ . tilting the INGERS()LL READY—]II1XE'D PAINTS, and BR USl~II¢.§, and selling them at full trade discounts, delivering them freight paid, and no money required until the goods are received—n1a.king them cheaper than even the material can be bought elsewhere. They are an absolutely pure 11111010: Possessing great endurance and brilliaucy, and are giving great satis- faction all over the country. _We have a Patron friend who saved enough alone on Paint In-chased to pay his Grange expenses for a life-time. They also sell ROOF P.-1 NT 30 per cent. cheaper than any one else. It is to the interest of all about painting to xvrite and have sent. free their book, “ Every One H is Own Jfaintm'.” It xvill save much Inoney, Vvhether you buy their Paint. or not. Ad’ ""P5S- 259 FRONT STREET, NEW YORI{.—(lv':-om “ Farmers’ 1<"rievnd.”) A A IN P. of H. and S. of I. Purchasing Agents, and IMPORTERS TEA AND corrsr BROKERS, P. O. Box 8029. 1V'E'VV' YORK. No Charge for Commission, (‘nrtage or Boxing on Tom; or (fofrees. Our Brokerage business doe n t t d b h n ' em in this‘ City ; but the facilifieg’ Wf;‘ee1g0y gofigrt 1:‘: ;fi:1;1sg;§t'£€?:1a!$tgpgi‘ee:to Wholesale Deal. . will result beneficially to all Patrons, as they will get goods at the same I!)Jl'lC0S a'tv\'vh(i:l31izv‘:e0siesllv{l‘;hso€l1¢i’ sale dealers. in the way of quality and price. Any rational individual can certainly estimate the advantage this arranaement Presents D , Since making these arrangements, we are astonished at the C 1 ‘ ' _ be purchased. This, however, is not strange, when it is consiiigiyedolirhgtlhzigttiiviirghwioliiidelite? 3:; with parties who were not Importers. It has been our purpose for some time past to endeavor to place ourselves in a position to Excel in Teas and Coffees, and we feel how that we have accom plished our desires. and we ask that you favor us with a trial order. We are the only Purchasing Agents in the City of New York recognized by the Nation 1 G - 3, range, (598 their Quarterly Bulletin). We will fill orders for any thing in this market at lowest obtainable ' , Prices. for any Grange or Council in the United States or Canadas, if our terms and provisions are - complied With, as published in the TRUE Ecozmxxns-1, I A! GRAPE vmss: SPRING OF 1877. I am prepared to furnish strictly first class Osage Orange Hedge Plants, one year old, for 32,25 per 1 000. Concord Grape Vines, strong one year old Plants, 91 .00 per dozen; $5 .00 per 100. Patrons would do well to avail themselves of the facilities afforded by their frequent Grange Meetings to co—operate and order by the 100. Fifty at same rate. Orders for Hedge Plants should be sent in be- fore April 1st. HENRY COLLINS, Box 311, White Pigeon, St. Joseph C0,, M1ch_ N. B.-,—Evergreen Trees for Lawns or Wind. Breaks, at low rates; also small Fruit Plants. Sample copies mailed free, _.md,-ess_ BAIN & ENSIGN, P. Box 3029, New York 1 . .. . . I seeps: The Best Offer Yet! The Best and most desirable Seeds fumlshed at a Discount of 50 per cent. or one half the usual rates for all Seeds in small packets. I make this a special ofier to Patrons of Hus- bandry, Clubs, &c., 1 which will enable them to save one half in procuring their Garden and Flower Seeds. Address, EZRA WILLIAMS, Rochester, N. Y.