zfv;-R BY TH E $2 EXECUTIVE MONTHLY GOMMITTE Grange, P. of H, 2:. orrnp Michigan State VoL. l. SCHOOLCRAFT, NOVEMBER, 1875. The 8. Officers Michigan state Grange. M.-— . J. WOODMAN, - - O.— . W. ADAMS, — - L.--- . L. WHITNEY-, - - S. . FLEMING, - - - A. .—W. H. MATTISON, - - G. . M. FITCH, - - - Sn .—J. T. COBB, - - - T. S. F. BROWN, - - - G. K.-—A. E. STRONG, - - Vicksburg. CERES.—MRS. N. CHILSON. Battle Creek- POMONA—MES. W. T. ADAMS, Grand Rapids. FLORA—MBS. J. J. WOODMAN, Paw Paw. L. A. S.—-Mas. W. H. MATTISON, Ionia. - Tecumseh. Muskegon . Pontiac. Ionia. Albion. Executive committee. NATHANIEL CHILSON, Chairman and State Purchasing Agent, Battle Creek; . SAMUEL LANGDON, - Bowen Station. ALONZO SESSIONS. - — ‘ Ton1a_. J. WEBSTER CHILDS. — Ipsllanth F. M. HOLLOWAY, — - Hlllsda-ls GEO. W. WOODWARD, Shelby,.Oceana Co. w_ A_ WALES, - — Disco, Macomb O0. J. J. WOODMAN, J. T. COBB, - Ex. Otficio. Deputies. c L WHITNEY, Gen-Deputy, Muskesom Tiios MARS for Berrien 00., 1’. O. Berrien Cr. EnsoiIPAc1€ARD, Gratiot “ “ Forest Hill. P W ADAMS, Lenawee “ Tecumseh. R'1cn"n MOORE, Clinton “ St. Johns. E J, Hone]-3s, I-Iillsdale “ Jonesville. his ANDERSON, Sanilac “ Farmers. Wni. F. LEWIS, Oceana. “ “ New Era- ARCHIBALD ROBERTSON, Shiawassee. 0W0SS0- TH:-:'VIs1ToR is issued monthly by ' order of the Executive Committee, under the supervision of the Master and Secretary of the State Grange. It is sent to the Master and Secretary of each Grange, and it should be read in open Grange at the first meeting after it is received, for the information of members. The subscription _price of the VISITOR is 40 cents per annum. \Ve shall adhere to Grange princi- ples, and require the money with the order. The last page will be devoted to advertisements, of interest to Patrons, at the following rates: . . . . . . . . . 'l2.00 i’1§t°°‘“f?‘“3 ‘“‘i1‘‘’‘’::‘ ' 1:11;: ....... 1* 7.00 Quarter 41 u , _ 0.P One-eight “ . . . . - - -- . . . . . . . . . .. .00 On advertisements ordered for three months, a discount of t.en per cent. will be made. _ On advertisements ordered for six months, a discount of twenty per cent. will be made. On advertisements ordered ior 12 months, a discount of thirty per cent. will be made. , Send money in registered letter, by postoflice money" order, or draft, and direct all communications to J . T. Cobb, Schoolcraft, Mich. The State Grange meets at Lansing, in the hall of the House of Represent- atives Tuesday, Dec. 14th, at .53 P. W- I P P . 2 . . aw aw ‘ ground that the National Grange IS a Suhoolcraft. ‘ ll National Grange. There are some who take the useless appendage to our organization. They say it costs too much and ac- complishes little. They forget that the whole movement originated with the National Grange, and through its efforts was spread over the country.- \Vithout its expenditure of money in extending the work to all parts of our land, there would be no grange at all, or only a small and insufficient associ- ation, similar to those which have heretofore risen and fallen in isolated districts. Having built up the vast fabric now known as the Order ot'Pat- rons of Hushandry———it-s services in their behalf‘ l)cin;_r unquestionable—it remains for us to determine whether it is not just as necessary to the con- tinued prosperity of the Order as it was to its inauguration and steady progress. It may be pissible that state gran- ges can now keep alive the spirit in their respective districts, but it is an untried experiment with our organiza- tion, and all experiments with other agricultural societies lead us to be- lieve that it would be a very disas- trous experiment. The only object of the Order is co-operation-—but if co-operation is to stop with state or subordinate granges, then our object will never be accomplished Suppose though, the subordinate granges should continue to exist, what utility could there be in such individualized strength? We might count largely in numbers, but we could never aggre- gate for any useful purpose the strength these represented. Agricul- turists would be, as much as ever, iso- lated and ready to fall victims in de- tail to their enemies. Heavy expenses have been necessa-‘ ry heretofore, but they have been principally incurred for purposes of organization. In 1874, 11,941 gran- ges were organized, entailing much larger outlays than will ever again be requisite. Year by year the expen- ditures for "enrolling and supplying new granges will grow less, and the machinery of the Order will become more compact and work more smooth- ly. It will, presently, not ‘be necessa- ry to hold so frequent meetings of the National Grange, thus reducing ex- penses there, some $15,000; articles for new granges will not be required, lopping off thus some 353,000; clerks in the secrctary’s ofiice will be fewer, saving in this item about $4,000, and so on through many other particillzngs, Many of these expenses, however, are not chargeable to the cost of carrying on the grange, anymore than the mo- ney paid for a cargo of coffee, which should be afterwards sold, could be charged any such way. For printing books, etc., the National Grange ex- pends much money, but through the vast cantracts which the demand ena- bles it to make, it gets work done at far less expense than state or subor- dinate grauges could have their seve- ral proportions separately done, and as those for whom the books are prin- ted pay for them, the expenses for this object should not be charged to the cost of running the National Grange. Under this head we class the 260,000 manuals; 196,071 song-books; the copyright on the same; 34,400 record books; 20,2601’-.-ll-books; 294,200 con- stitutions; 74,300 p ar li am e n ta ry guides, published in 187-1, and costing in the aggregate over $50,000. The granges can stop this expenditure it they choose, by ceasing to call for the articles. but if‘ they would simply transfer the business to state granges, there would be no saving, but really a great loss, for a large job is done much cheaper by Printers than a amall one. Thus, when we analyze the expen- ditures fnr 1875, about which the most has been said, we find that more than $50,000 has been expended for books, which the grange could not have got- ten by any other means at so little cost; over $30,000 for supplies requir- ed by new granges, which it is rea- sonable to presume, were obtained cheaper through the National Grange than they could be through any or- ganization representing a less con- stituency; $15,000 and over were do- nated to state granges; upwards of $3,500 were loaned to Nebraska; clerks in the secretar-y’s ofiice-—the most of them made necessary by rea- son of the large number of granges being -organized——were paid over $8,000; oflicers (7) were paid about $9,000; their expenses amounted to about $41,000; over $11,000 for blanks, circulars, tracts, etc , and about $12,- 000 i'or the meeting of the National Grange. This makes a total oi:up- wards of $142,000. None of the oth- eers get extravagant pay, and when we have worked up all the material for new granges, it is probable that ‘ few of them will be employed or paid a salaries. It is impossible to organize an army or keep it up without ex- , pense, and the only wonder is that it i has CO=.‘It_ SO littltl. We favor strict economy, but we are opposed to any l change which shall not give us equal efficieney, whatever money it may ‘ save. We believe that in time the National Grange will use its means to 1 better purpose than heretofore; that ‘z. it will constitute itself a vast co-ope- rative concern, buying and sellingl ‘cheaply for cash to thousands of sub- ordinates. Until such use is made of ; its power and money, there will always l be more or less complaints, for cxpen ditures will appear to be without rcc— ' orn'pense.-— li’-'ecI.~i’_o./ Grange. From Ohio Slate Agent’: De-5. p an-tment. We talk of the Grange system of’ trading. Have we really a reliable system? : is what we have merely a theory, as yet unreduced to form? Let us calmly think over this mat- ter, and if we are not doing business on sound business principles, put our- selves right at once. Our theories are all right. No one will gainsay the statement that the consumer has a right to reach the pro- ducer by the shortest and cheapest road. But, it is equally true that the producer has not only a right to reach the consumer, but that he must find a market or cease to produce goods. All we do, or propose doing, is to give him this market, in our own way, and that way is going directly to him and taking his products oil‘ his hands, allowing him to make a fair profit, but dispensing with the use of the go- bctween middleman, agent, or jobber, so as to retain ourselves the money that is paid for selling the goods. But, the goods ’must not only be sold, but in most instances, the man- ufacturer must be able to calculate how many of a given article he may safely make, in order that he may buy raw material, and labor on as ood terms as other manufacturers who base their calculations on the old system which they have practically reduced to a certainty. Hence, we must do something that will give our manufacturers a basis on which to cast their calculations, and having given them this basis, we must stand by them, just the same as we stood in the place of their special agents. It will never do to have it come to pass that men whom we have induced to yield to our fair arrange- ments shall fail to reap the legitimate rewards of their concessions to us, in as good or better profits than others get who refuse to hear us. Then make up your minds what ar- ticles and how many of each kind you will want, and give your Purchising Agent statements on which they may safely make coiitracts.—A—merican Patron. —There are at this date over 24 - 000 ‘Granges in the United States, with a membership of about one mil- lion and "a halt. Missouri, Indiana. and Iowa have each over 2,000 Gran- ges, and Kentucky over 1,600. —-The Fm-mer’s Friend, (Penn.,) promises soon to give particu- lars concerning the proposed centen- nial encampment for the Order in J. J. VVOODMAN, - 7 ‘ Philadelphia-. - are herewith siibinitted to the Grange l withnit recommendation. __,___ %E5f2t’5 @2113-rtntcut. PAW PAW. The wives, of Masters elected to the State Grange, are members of that body, and entitled to mileage and per dicm. No election is ncccsaary in; their case. NATIONAL GIRANGE. First Day---lilo:-ning Session. LOUISVILLE, KY., Wednesday, Nov. 17, 1875. lhe National Grange assembled in annual session in the parlors of the (J alt House, and was opened in form in the sixth degree at 10:35 o’clock A. M., Worthy Master Dudley W. Ad- ams in the chair. Bro. Moore, Md., moved that a Committee on Credentials be appoin- ted, with instructions to report at- once, that acorrect list of voting. members might be prepared. The Worthy Master announced the following as the Committee on Cre dentials : Bro. \Voodman, Mich, Sister Hudson, Kansas, Sister Jones, Ark., Bro. Grosh, D. C., Bro. Allen, Mo. Bro, Moore, Md, moved that the Grange take a. recess of one hour to enable the Committee on Credentials to report; but withdrew it to allow Bro. Smith, Ga., to offer the following: “Resolved, That the Secretary be added to the Committee on Creden- tialsg" which was adopted. The Grange then took a recess. The Grange was called to order at 1’ 12:30 P. M. . Bro. Woodman presented the fol- lowing report : “The Committee on Credentials have examined the credentials of members, and find the followin g mem- bers entitled to vote in this body: Master, . . . Dudley W. Adams. Overseer, .Thomas Taylor. Lecturer, T. A. Thompson. Steward, . . . . . . . . . . . .A. J. Vaughan. Assistant Steward, . . . . . . . . . . . . Chaplain, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rev. A. B. Grosh Treasurer, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F. M. McDowell. Secretary, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0. H. Kelley. Gate-keeper, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0. Dinwiddie. Ceres, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mrs. D. W. Adams. Pomona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mrs. Thos. Taylor. Flora, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mrs. J. T. Moore. Lady Assistant Steward, . . . . _ _ .Miss C, A, Ha11_ >.Executz:ve 0oinnzittec.—\Villiam Saunders, D. Wyatt Aiken, E. R. Shankland, John T. Jones, Dudley T. Chase. Members.—W. H. Chambers, Mrs. John T. Jones, Harvey Godard, Mrs. Harvey Godard, R. Q. Tenney, Mrs. R. Q. Tenney, E. B. C Mrs. E; B. Crew, John J. Rosa, Mrs. John J, Roga, F. Wardlaw, Mrs. B. F. Wardlaw, T. J. Smith. Mrs. T. J. Smith, Alonzo Golder, A. B. Smedley, Mrs. A. B. Smedley. Henley James Mrs. Henley James, M. E. Hudson, M. D. Dal vie, Mrs. M. D. Davie, H. W. L. Lewis, Nelson Ham, Mrs. Nelson Ham, Jos. T. Moore. Joseph P. Felton, Mrs. Joseph P. Felton, J. J. Wood- man, Mrs. J. J ._ Woodman. Samuel E. Adams Mrs. Samuel Adams. W. L. Hemingway, Mrs.’ W. L. Hemingway, T. R. Alien, Mrs. T. R, A]. len, Brigham Ree . Mrs. Dudley T. Chase, Mor- timer Vlfhitehead, Mrs. Mortimer VVhitehea.d, Geo. D. Hinckley, Mrs. Geo. D. Hincxley, Co- lumbus Mills, Mrs. Columbus Mills, S. H. Ellis Mrs. s. H. Ellis, D. B. Manger, Mrs. D_ w;Aii ken, Wm. Maxwell, Mrs. Wm. Maxwell, Wm. W. Lang, E. P. Colton, Mrs. E. P. Colton, J . W. White, B. M. Kitchen, Mrs. B. M. Kitchen, Jonn Cochrane. _“The committee find the creden- ti_als_of Bro. J. V. Webster, of Califor- D15}-,1n proper form, but his seat in this body is contested by Bro. Ham- ilton. The credentials and protest 1 (Signed) ‘ “J. J. \Voonii.u~:, Ch’n. I Which report was on motion adopted. Bro. Davie, ‘Worthy Master of the State Grange of Kentucky, in behalf of that body and of the Patrons of the State, welcomed the National Grange as follows: ‘ ; “ lVOI'f/l,]/ zlfastrr. [3r0ih'“rs and ;S[sl«»7'.s', .l[c7m'm*s Q/'1‘/iv ./Vatizmal Grange: --With open arms Kentucky greets -.you, \Velcomel As the spokesman rew, ' of one hundred thousand good and true members of‘ our Order in this State, as the representative of one million three hundred thousand Ken- tuckians and the one hundred and fifty thousand people of this beauti- ful and flourishing city of Louisville, I now ask you to feel at home among us. No ceremony is needed here, and in their name I extend to you a most cordial and hearty welcome. “We all feel grateful to your Loca- ting Committee, and thank your dis- tinguished members here assembled from every State in our Union, for having chosen this central city of our nation for the permanent headquar- ters of the National Grange. L We are proud to have among us a body which we know to be conservative in its character, prudent in its counsels, liberal in its sentiments, wise in its judgments, and laborious in its en- deavors to promote the Welfare of the human family. Your actions while here assembled will be watched with the most anxious solicitude by mill- , ions of people throughout the length and breadth of our common oounlry, who’.-e troubles and burdens are now almost too heavy to be borne. They hope ahd believe that you will estab- lish a system of education, so much needed by the agzriculturists of our land. and will fix plans by which equal justice can be given to all industries, and which will cause moneyed monop- olists hereafter to cease oppressing the laboring classes among us. Let us go forward then, here at this piv- otal point of our nation, and work harmoniously for the good of the or- der, striving to build it up in its use- fulness; not with a view to injure any industry in the land, but to promote them all by establishing rules of jus- tice and right by which all men and industries can be guided. Then will the world rightfully view our objects, while wisdom controls our counsels. “Once more, Worthy Master; once more, brothers; once more, sisters, from the North, from the South, from the East, from the West, I bid you welcome to this our permanent rest- ing-place.” The address of Bro. Davie was re- sponded to on behalf of the National Grange by Worthy Master Adams, as follows: “Dear Brother: “The National Grange is §__vratified at the very cordial welcome just ex- tended to them, and in their behalf allow me to say that it is rendered all the more agreeable by coming from a brother we all so highly esteem. “In selecting Louisville as the h’ me of the Grange our committee did wisely and well. Its location is cen- tral to the nation, central to the great ,.~,,,-ya <.= ' .~ -1,». . ’ . I agricultural interests we represent.‘ and lies on the banks of a beautiful river on the border ot' the two great sections we are doing s) much to unite in fraternal bonds. "It is also a. beautiful city, in a ge- nial climate. and inhabited by a peo- ple noted for their hospitality, and more in harmony with our movement than any other city in the l.'l!1(l. “Brothers, we are proud tr day that our Grange has a home in the grand old State of Kentucky. v We mean to have and hold an abiding interest on Kentucky soil, and shelter ourselves under the aegis of Kentucky’s lame. “Away down the long vi-ta ufyears before us, when our Order is crystal- ized and embalmed in the hetirts of all its members, when the Grange in eve- ry agriculturalheighborh ood becomes as much a matter of course :s the school-house, may it not be that this beautiful city by the river shall become the Mecca of a'l good ag.icultural- ists.” The VVorthy Master then delivered his annual address as t'oll ws : " Patrons: “Time flies! Ono brush of he wings, a deepened wtinkle on the brow, another thread ot' silver in the locks, and a year is gone to take its place in the great army of the p tst. “The grim, unerring archer has sped his shafts, striking down alike the high and low, and given their names and deeds to history. "Yet of the fraternal band which met at Georgetown, at St. Louis, at Charleston, not one has received the deadly shaft, and we meet to day with unbroken and augmented ranks- to labor in this glorious cause. "A few familiar and beloved faces we miss from their accustomed places, having been delegated to other fields of usefulness. “In their stead are new forms, strange to our sight, but properly re- cognized as laborers in the same field, and we cordially extend to them a fra- ternal welcome, and will hold them with a Patron’s ‘grip.' “Not only are we pleased to note our old ranks full. but delighted to extend them, and incorporate in our fraternal band, the husbandman and matron who have cleared new fields and sown seed on new ground. With one accord our voices greet. the rep- resentatives of Delaware and Connec- ticut; our hands grasp, our hearts welcome them. “By this advent of new members will be brought new ideas and fresh thought, and in the work before us we expect of them the enthusiasm of recruits combined with the steadiness of veterans. “Since our last meeting our order has added another year to its eventful existence. It has received the criti- cisms alike of friend and fee. It has stood like a rock against the buffet- ings of enemies. and is now looked upon more and more as the bulwark of its friends. - It to-day is stronger in numbers, more compact in organiza- tion, richer in experience, and lies nearer our hearts than ever before- Ovetv two thousand subordinate Gran- ges have been organized, and two more states have put on our armor . structive exercises. and advanced to the front to do val- iant battle for the good cause. ‘ In some localities Granges have from various causes languished and (lied ‘ Sumetimes the material of which they were composed was too weak to live, and sometimes had from uncon- genial occupations no interest in com- mon with our purposes. ‘ Sometimes Granges were txro close together, and, like forest-trees plant- ed too thickly, the strong overshad- owed and smothered the weak; but, like ‘the forests, this close planting torced the survivors to a taller, straighter growth, and their branches stretch out and cover the whole ground. Some Granges complain of a want of interest among the members and a thin attendance at the meetings; while others, and by far the larger por- tion. announce a continued interest.- In those cases where a -poor attend- ance is complained of it is universally the case that the oflicers of the Grange do not provide for interesting and in- It can not be ex- pected ot' members to attend regular- ly when nothing of interest is transpi- ring; but wherever oflicers make the meetings attractive the attendance is always good.’ I beg leave to call once' more the attention of the National Grange to this most important matter of laying down some plan or plans by means of which subordinate Granges may be able to amuse and instruct members so as to make the meetings full, and thus keep their present mem- bershipand largely increase it. “The work of the last year has been done under the constitution as amen- ded at St. Louis, and in the main it seems to be more satisfactory than before; but in a few points experience has shown that some further change is necessary, and further action to re- move ambiguities. “In this connection permit me to call your attention to the composition of the State Grange. “Under the old constitution Masters of subordinate Granges and their wives, who were Matrons, were mem- bers, and Past Masters and their wives were honorary members, eligible to oflice, but not entitled to vote. “In many of the States this tnade a body too large to do business, and too expensive for the means at the com- mand of the State Grange treasury. “In changing the constitution to its present form, the National Grange had mainly in view the reducing the number of paid voting members of the State Grange ‘.3 but inadvertently the law was so worded as to cut off all Past Masters and their wives from even honorary membership, and of course from eligibility to oflice. “This appears to be a very unfortu- nate mistake, for it places many of our best, most experienced and faithful members where we can not avail our- selves oftheir services. It is eminent- ly proper that when a person ceases to be a Master of a subordinate Grange thenceforth he should have no vote in a State Grange, but that the voting members should be the last choice of the subordinate Granges; yet It seems good policy that the direct represen- tatives of the subordinate Granges should be allowed to retain the offi- 1 cial services of such Past Masters as have proved able and true. “The last line of the same section is such as to create doubt in the minds of many members, and some have con- strued this to mean that any Master of a subordinate Grange, or his wife who is not a delegate is not a mem- her of the State Grange in any sense, and hence ineligible to oflicc. The ambiguity should be removed by pro- per amendment. “In regard to District Granges some difference of interpretation has arisen concerning the three fourth-degree members who may be elected to the District Granges. Some states have provided for the election ofthrce mem- bers each year, some for the election of three members each quarter, and under such an interpretation they may provide for the election of three members every week or day in the year, thus absolutely endangering the very existence of the subordinate Granges by swallowing them up in the County Grange, and at the same time making the County Granges so cumbersome as to be valueless and im- practical, like the State Grange under the old law. “ If the present wording of the law is really capable oftwo interpretations, it should be relieved of all ambiguity. “There is one feature of our law which has caused some comment by the press and others, they ciaiming that all forth-degree members should be eligible to all oflices in State and National Granges, thus carrying the presumption that all fourth degree members are not thus eligible. “The fact is, each member is equally eligible ; but our law very judiciously provides that before he can hold any oflice in the State Grange he must re- ceive the highest possible endorsement from his own neighbors who know him best, by being elected to the highest otiice of his subordinate Grange. This places it out of the power of a State Grange to elect to an oflice in the State Grange a plausablc, good talker who could not be elected Gate-keeper at home where he was better known. “ Our law also very properly pro- vides that before any member can hold oflice in the National Grange he must receive the highest possible indorse- ment in his own State Grange; and thus indorsed by his own state, and not till then, can the National Grange place him in a position of trust It is a most judicious measure of safety, as it gives the State Granges in advance the power to say which of their mem- bers shall not hold office in the Na- tional Grange. This provision is em- inently wise, cautious, and conserva- tive, and will always secure men for otlice who have shown that they poss- ess the confidence of those who know them best. “ Some also claim that the higher degrees should be accessible to all who will pay a certain fee of membership, thus selling for money to the rich what is now reserved as a reward for long service from rich and poor alike. “ In obedience to a resolution of the National Grange the officcs of the or- der have been removed from Washing- ton and located in the city of Louis- ville. “ The location may now be consider- ‘-“.91-._‘\.,.._ 9,. 4‘ ed permanent, for certainly it is appro- priate that the headquarters of a great agricultural organization should be lo- cated in the center of the great agri- cultural district of our country. Being thus established, it seems to be emi- iiently proper and wise that this great order should have ahabitation as well as a name. “The inquiry is often made, of what use is a great fund in the National Grange? And there seems to be a sort of undefinable dread lest some ae- cident should happen to our accuinu- lated trea.sure. I would therefore most heartily recommend that the sum now invested in United States bonds be used for the erection or pur- chase of such a building in this city as shall be consistent with the conven- ience and dignity of the greatest se- cret society in the world. “It will thus form a. center to which all Patrons can look as the result of their contributions, and be an exam- ple of solid strength that State and Subordinate Granges will do well to emulate. “Did the National and each State and subordinate Grange now own and occupy suitable buildings, it would in itself be almost a sure guaranty of per- nianence. “It shows wonderful vitality in -our Granges that so many have survived and prospered without any fixed or suitable habitation, but holding their meetings in school-houses or any oth- er building that might be .temporarily attainable. “I have yet to learn of the first fail- ure of a Grange which owned and oc- cupied a convenient, comfortable, and well-appointed hall. “No subordinate Grange should be for a moment satisfied with its situa- tion until it owns a hall fully furnish- ed with all the conveniences of a Grange-room, including musical in- struments and a well-selected library. Such Granges never die; but, rooted in the aflections of their members, they will bestow rich blessings on ag- riculture long after their founders have crossed the dark river “The question of co operation in which our members have so deep an interest has received much and careful thought from the Executive Commit- tee of the National Grange, and they will have ready a report which is be- lieved to embody the essence of what the world has discovered of co-opera- tive principles and practice; and they have endeavored to adapt it to our present wants. This will be submit- ted to you at an early day. “Regarding transportation and a sound currency our members are deep- ly interested. My own views on these questions have been so _ fully given in former messages, I need not trouble you with their reiteration further, than to say that the convictions before ex- pressed are only deepened and strengthened by each passingyear. “The loan which the National Grange oflered the State Granges has only been called for by a minority of the States, the balance having allowed it to remain in our fiscal agency sub- ject to their call, thus showing an abil- ity on the part of most State Granges to carry on their work on their regular revenue. That the revenue of State Granges is ample for all expenses is shown by the very handsome balances -in some oftlie state treasuries after meeting all the necessary expenses.— Indiana and Ohio are notable exam- ples of good financial inaiiagenieiit, both having plethoric treasuries, the former especially containing over $20,- 000. Such cases are cheering to all‘ good Patrons, and bright examples of thrift and economy, which public bod- ies and private individuals should eni- ulate. “The few topics I have here touch- ed upon are but a little of what will demand your attention. Assembled as we are from every'portion of our great republic, we necessarily repre- sent every phase.of_' American agricul- ture. It will tax to the utmost your wisdom and prudence to legislate that none be oppressed or none wronged. “The relation of National. State, and subordinate Granges to each other is one of the utmost delicacy, and should be so handled that the utmost confi- dence and fraternal good feeling shall be preserved between them, for thus only can our grand edifice maintain its strength and symmetry. “The laws regulating their connec- tion should be characterized by a spir- it of kindness and forbearance, and ex- ecuted with even-handed justice. Thus shall we beget in all Patrons such an afilection for our order that they will rally around our altar and defend it from every attack. “And now, Patrons, in addressing ourselves to the work before us, let us realize that we are the representatives of the greatest secret society in the world, and the greatest subordinate interest of the nation. “Let us remember that the welfare of the millions may be affected by our slightest deviation from the true path, and, thus remembering, let our coun- cils be characterized by wisdom, calm- ness, justice aiid love, and may the work done here make us stronger as an order, more prosperous as produ- cers, dearer friends, and better citi- zsns.” MISSOURI.—The executive commit- tee of the Missouri State Grange met in St. Loui<, ' Nov. 2d. Present, Judge R. Q. Reach, chairman; Col. Childs, of «J acksen County; Col. Mc- Lelland, of Lafayette County; Dr. Frazer, of Rails County; Capt. Price, of St. Louis. Also, '1‘. R. Allen, mas- ter, and Col. A. M. Coliey, Secretary of State Grange. The committee is composed of earnest workers and men of brains, and now that the season for real work in the grange is at hand, they may be relied upon to help “put the house in order." Wehope to see every grange in the State in line for a. forward march during the winter.- The committee has an eye to econo- my, and whatever opinions or fears the granges may have, we feel safe in assuring them that ‘every dollar of the grange money will be judiciously handled by them, for the best interests‘ of the Order at large in the State.—— S5. Louis Journal ofAg7-iculture. ‘Vi-3 regret that several communica- tions set up for this number, must lie over for want of room. Our Dec. num_ ber will be one of interest to members gjctretarfis gepartment. J_ fig COBB, - - - .- SCHOOLCRAFT. Officers and members of Subordinate Granges in corresponding with this office, will please always give the Number of their Grange. [From th Son of the Soil.] Lines to our Brothers and Sis. ters of the South. BY MRS. ELLEN WILLIAMS, Sec’y Storm Grange No. 419, Wayne Co., Iowa. Here's a kindly greeting, brothers —-take my hand ; _ , And for thee, dear, noble sisters, kind and true, In the deep recesses of my heart there rests A. softer. gentler feeling there for you. Ma these two links of friendship never dim, Vfihicli binds the North to thine own sunny land ; But may we look with trusting faith to Him Who holds us in the hollow of His hand. May kindly interchange be ever ours, Prompted by the precepts of fraternal love, Till the Great Master doth the welcome give VVhich bids us enter the grange above. May social joys each heart with love expand; All bitter thoughts be buried with the dead ; And may the lovelight of our Order be, Like a halo, round this nation spread. Here's a kindly greeting, brothers-take my hand ; And for thee, dear noble sisters, kind and true, In the deep recesses of my heart there rests A softer, gentler feeling there for you. A Trip to Louisville. G'AL'l‘ House, Louisville, November 20th, 1875. As my date shows, I find myself in. attendance for the second time at a session of the National Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry. Closing my oflice at 10:30 a. In. yesterday, at eleven a. m to-day I was listening to the debate of the representatives of the several States in Council assem- bled. Iii addition to the officers of the National Grange and the Masters and their Wives from the States and Territories, We found Bro. Shankland, of the National Executive Committee, and his wife, and some twenty—l'ive Patrons in attendance, not of the body proper, who, like myself, have drop- ped in to stay for a day or a week as their business will permit. Of this number we shall follow our first im- pulse and just make mention of Sister Garretsoii, the worthy Lecturer of the Iowa State Grange. The fact that she holds so important an office in the great State of Iowa, is evidence of a clear head and earnest purpose, which our worthy Sister, by the courtesy of the National Grange, had an oppor- tunity of demonstrating to our satis- faction before that body while we were in attendance. She is a good speaker, convincing in manner, clear and forcible in argument, and honors the oliicial position to which the Pat- rons of Iowa have called her. VVe do not know that any other Sis- ters were present not directly connect- ed with the National Grange. Sever- al State Agents and members of State Executive Committees were of the number preeent. Of State Secretaries we found Bro. W. A‘. Armstrong, of New York, Who, by his connection with the famous _Fariners’ Club of Elmira, and as ed- itor oi the IIusbcmdman, is rapidly acquiring with farmers a National rcp- utation ; and also W. W. Miller, from Castalia, Ohio. From the brief ac- quaintance had with these gentlemen, we are satisfied that the business per- taining to the oifice of Secretary in these States is in good hands. We missed in the well-filled parlors of the Gralt House, Where the National Grange is holding its session, the grave and venerable face of Wm. Saunders, one of the founders of the Order. We understand he was de- tained in Washington on some bus- iness connected with the Centennial. One half or more of the masters present we had met at St. Louis two years ago, and we renewed the brief acquaintance then formed with much satisfaction. The lady members of the National Grange put in their appearance at this session I think in greater numbers than at any previous meeting. Preliminary matters seem to have been disposed of, and the Grange, through its Committees, has settled down to business. . Petitions for changes in the Consti- tution, and for various other purposes, are flowing in quite freely. To the demand for a reduction of salaries and a rigid economy in the administration of the business of the National Grange, the members all seem disposed to give heed. In proof of this, with little debate, the annual salary of the Master of the National Grange was reduced from $2,000 to $1,500 ; that of Secretary, fro1n $2500 to $2,000; that of Treasurer, from $1000 to $600. The Executive Com- mittee are to be paid a per diem of $5, instead of a salary as heretofore. These men very Well know that to undertake to adapt the laws of the Order to the capricc of the hasty and inconsiderate would only Work in- jury to the cause, and they will “make haste slowly ” in changing the fundamental law. Understanding fully the situation, and comprehending their responsibil- ity, and the importance of their legis- lation at this session, the demands of subordinate Granges and County Councils and all petitions will be care- fully considered and acted upon by the body as the “ good of the Order ” shall seem to its members to require. There can be no doubt but some ac- tion Will be had at this session upon the disposition, by division in some manner, of a large amount of the funds in the National Treasury, among the several States. The demand for such distribution has been general, and under the loan resolution, adopted at the last session, $23,850 has been paid to ten States that complied with its conditions. Some States were unable to comply with the conditions of the loan, and others, like Michigan, did not apply. A pro rata distribution will probably supercede the loan pro- ject of the last session. By special order, the election of officers was set down for half-past ten on Tuesday . the 25th inst. There seemed very little canvassing among the members, and no one seemed at all confidant as to who were to be the lucky men and women. I had determined to leave at 2:10 p. m. on Tuesday for home, as I felt that I could not spare another day from ofliee work at home. Soon after the time designated for the election, E. P. Colton, ‘V. M., of Vermont State Grange, and Miss C. A. Hall, L. A. S,, of the National Grange, were appoint- ed -tellers, and as the Clerk called the roll of voting members, each came for- ward to the middle of the room and deposited a vote in a ballot-box. The first ballot for Master took a wide range——ten members receiving votes. D. ‘V. Adams, the present VVorthy Master, received 28 of the 73 votes cast; Chambers, of Alabama, 13; Aiken, of South Carolina, 8, and Jones, of Arkansas, 7; others less. A second and third ballot was had; Ad- ams, holding his own, Chambers and Aiken gaining from the scattering vote, and Jones gaining but one vote. The Grange took a recess for dinner, and I took a street-ca.r for the depot- a mile and a half away. — At 7 : 10 the next morning I was in Kalamazoo. By a paper received from Bro. \Voodman, next day, I find John T. Jones, of Arkansas, was elect ed Master on the tenth ballot. J. J. VVoodman, of Michigan, was elected Overseer on the third ballot. A. B. Smedly, of Iowa, was elected Lecturer. A. J. Vaughn, of Tennessee. Steward. M. \Vhitehead, of New Jersey, Assist- ant Steward. H. Ellis, of Ohio, Chaplain. F. M. M cDowell, of New York, Treasurer O. H. Kelley, Sec- retary, and O. Dinwiddie, of Indiana, Gate Keeper. Mrs. J. F.’ Jones, wife of the Master elect, was elected Ceres The election of the other lady oflicers was postponed until the next day, and we have had no proceedings since. Of this number, four old officers are re elected. Our stay at Louisville, though com- paratively short, was very satisfactory. The cordial and fraternal character of the intercourse between members of the Order, without regard to locality or ofiicial position, was to us a very gratifying assurance of true brother- hood, and served to increase our con- fidence in the perpetuity of the Order. In the December number we shall give further proceedings of the Nation- al Grange. A few Grrangcs have consolidated in our State, but the requirements of Ar- ticle 10, By—Laws of National Grange, have not always been complied with. After the required permit has been received from the Master of the State Grange, and a vote taken by the Granges ‘proposing to consolidate, the completeness of the work seems to be lost sight oi‘. Will Sec:-etaries of consolidated Granges please look over their papers and see it they do not find a blank which should be returned to this oflice. Please examine the Article referred to, and if you have not complied with all its requirements, please attend to it, as it is very desirable that the ac- tion of G-ranges in so important a matter be strictly in accordance with the law. ~ A W.it.1' in the 1)I’(Il.l‘i-5 F«.Ir7n.<*2' :5 «ya that his grunge is in favor of pay- ing a salxry instead of‘ a commission to purchasing agents. VVe believe such is the general feeling. Delegates to the State Grange. As promised in the October number of the Visrron, we sent to the Master of the first Grange organized in each county and to the Master living at or nearest the county seat, blank certifi- cates for a. return to this office of the Masters elected to the State Grange. A month has elapsed, and we are both surprised and disappointed that . the list we print in this issue is so in- complete. Will the Chairman or See- retary of the Convention in counties which do not appear in this list, send me at once, the names and P. 0. ad. dress of the Masters elected from their several counties. It ought to have appeared in this number complete. Counties have reported as follows: All»;/an—L. C. Gilbert, Moline, No. 248; Albert Stegeman, Allegan, No. 53; WV. H. McCormick, Fennville, SS0. 461. . _Berricn——lV1n.' Haslett, Buchanan, No. 40; Thos. Marrs, Berrien Center, No. 14; Thos. Mason, Lake, No. 84; T. T. King, Sodus, 123. Cal/z.0ugz——Edward White, Bedford, No. 65; Silas E. Woodworth, N0. 85; D. P. Hatch, Homer, No. 200. 0ass—Thos. Odell, Porter No. 427 ; Gaylord Corey, Silver Creek No. 176. Grand T rcwerse—-Solomon Franklin, Old Mission, No. 468. IIz'llsdale—H. D. Peasell, Allen, N o. 78; O. H. Gorsuch, _Lickby’s Corners, No. 274: Albert Kenyon, Adams, No. 286; C. Fink, Cambria, No. 74. Ingham—S. E. Jeffers, Cedar, No. 235; H. H. Bruerton, Stockbridge, No. 7; R. E. Trowbridge, Capitol, No. 540. « Jac7rs0n—Jo11n F. Drew, Rives Val- ley, No. 344; D. L. Jacobs, Star, No. 288; G. R. Culver, Columbia, No. 208. Ifalarmazoo--E. T. Lovell, Climax, ' No. 72: C. Bonfoey, Eureka, No. 11; ‘Vin. N. Woodard, Cooper, No. 62; R. E. James, Arcada, No. 21. Lake—~ F. M. Carroll, Pleasant Plains, No. 534. Lenawee—W. L. G. Mason, Moren- ci, No. 280; J. H. Barker, Macon, No. 167; J. B. Stephenson, Springville, No. 279. Lim'ngst0n—Rya1 Barnum, Unadil- la, No. 6; E. Waite, Tyrone. No 116. ll/Iam'stee—-James McDermoid, Pleas- anton, No 557. Jllecosta-Williaiii Ladner, Laurel, No. 474. ]l[0m'oe—I-Ie1'nia1i Bristol, Bedford, No. 502; A. J. Briggs, \Vhitef'ord, No. 492. Jlluslceg/on.—.lol11i G. Ileasey, Allu- mina, No. 585. ]lIi(l/and-— D. A. Hare, Ingersoll, No. 603. Oar/azza-—W'. F. Lewis, Sylvan, No. 393; Elb. Comstock, Weare, No. 409. 0sceolce—VV.O.Smith, Crapo, No. 363 St. Josep/t—J. S. Richards, Constan- tine, N o. 236; Wm. B. Langley, Cen- terville, No. 76; J. ‘V. Parker, Sturgis, No. 332. Sa_(]z'naw—John Gridley, Birch Run, No. 574; Jacob M. W'iltse, . Leslie, No. 599. Sam'lac—John Sheldon, Hope, No. 482; Geo. Smith, Amadore, No. 490. S/2z"awassec—A. F. Place, Lainsburg, No. 228; J. D. Williams, Star, No. 300; M. ‘\V. VVillough‘l3y, Hazel Green, No. 252. Tuscoltt--Tl10S.‘V. Briggs, Water- ....e..;......._... - oauu-raids.-£h<~.-vies :-.3-_......., _ 1 7 o ; town, No. 523; E. S. Gibbs, Caro, No. 525; Augustus Greenfield, Columbia, No 582. . Wa_2/119-Geo. C. Gordon, Redford, No. 367; Wm. DeYoe, Center, No. 298. The following counties have not sent in their reports as requested: Antrim, Barry, Bay, Benzie, Branch Charlevoix, Clare, Clinton, Eaton, Genessee, Gratiot, Huron, Ionia, Isa- bella, Kent, Lapeer, Leelanaw, Ma- comb, Mason, Montcalm, Newago, Oakland, Ottawa, St. Clair, Van Bu- ren, Washtenaw. As several complaints have reached us within the last month, that money remitted to H. I. Allen, manager of the Prairie Club Agency, Schoolcraft, had not been accounted for by the re- ceipt of papers sent for or otherwise, and that the said Allen failed to make satisfactory expl_anation of the matter when written to concerning it, we take this, our earliest opportunity to call the attention of Patrons to this matter. Mr. Allen is an old resident and has done business in this place for many years, and when he obtained my name, that of S. F. Brown, Past Master of the State Grange, and M. R. Cobb, Cashier of the First National Bank of Schoolcraft, as references, he could ‘ have got, for the asking, the name of any man in the village for this pur- pose. I am annoyed and mortified at the state of the case, and have only this comfort—that Mr. Allen is not l and never was a Patron. WE received the following letter in l October and have not replied to it for obvious reasons: , “Secretary State Grange, Sc/c0oZcrafl.' i DEAR BRorHEn:—The Master of this Grange has never received, nei- 3 ther has the Secretary, anything per- taining to the last Session of thel Michigan State Grange. \Vc would i like the Proceedings.” 3 To the brother sending this brief let- ‘i ter without date or signature, we 1 ‘Would say that we sent, as soon as‘ published, a copy of Proceedings to every Secretary in the State, and as we still have a hundred copies, more or less, in our oflice, we shall take pleasure in forwarding copies on a.p- plication, to any good Brother or Sis- ter of the Order WE would again call attention to the Grand Encampment project, set on , foot by our Pennsylvania brothers. It ‘ seems to us that the enterprise is well ‘ ber commencing the 13th. worthy of the immediate attention of the subordinate Granges through- E out the country. In taking the lead in this matter, we must remember that Pennsylvania and New Jersey Patrons are acting for the good of the mem- bership at a distance, quite as much as on their own account. It appears to us that the months of the Centen- nial may be counted on to advance,‘ strengthen and compact our Order by the opportunity that event will afford for acquaintance, for comparison of opinions and experience on business matters, and for a general interchange of views _between members from all parts of the country.-.. VVe hope to hear 01 some Michigan Granges that have taken stock in the Centennial Encampment. IN one of the early numbers of the VISITOR we recommended Masters and Secretaries to keep a file of this sheet for reference. From some letters we receive we conclude that if a file is kept, that reference is not often made. Now, brothers, before writing us, ask- ing some question, just consider for a moment whether the information you seek has not at some time reached you through the VISITOR. If you Write ‘us we shall answer you all the same; but if this hint is regarded, it will save us some work, I am sure——Keep a file of the Visrron. Tun firm of Montgomery, Ward & Co., whose advertisement has appeared continuously in the VIsI1'oR, have, from a small beginning, grown to mam- moth proportions. This fact alone is good evidence that in their dealing with Patrons a fair and honorable course has been pursued. The ofiicial position and standing of their referen- ces atfords a guarantee of its good character. Their offer to allow an ex. amination of their goods in the Express Oflice on all orders sent C. O. D., and a return of the goods, without charge to the Patron ordering, if not found satisfactory, makes it perfectly safe to order from them. WE have received several letters of inquiry from Patrons, supposing that _ if they knew just how to go to work , they could borrow some of the surplus of the National Grange treasury. This is a mistake. The action of the Na- tional Grange last winter, looking to a return of money to the States, was in ‘ the nature of a loan to the several; States of an amount equal to $2.50 for each of the Granges in the State. N. CHILSON, - - BATTLE CREEK. by which half-fare rates are secured on the Michigan Central and Chicago & Lake Huron Railroads for all Pat- rons who may wish to attend the State Grange at Lansing. The arrange- ments will cover the week of Decem- ‘C. L. WHITNEY, - gist: <§,g2nt's epartmeutfl To secure , half fare tickets the C & L. H. R. R. ‘ tificate from the Secretary of the State Grange to show to the ticket agent at the station from which they start. Secretary Cobb will send such certifi- cates, on application, to the Secretar- ies of Granges, that any member may have the benefit of this reduction. We have not been able to make any arrangement for special rates with oth- er railroads, but We advise all our friends who wish to attend the session to secure these cirtificates as we may yet make arrangements that will make them available as a return ticket on all other roads. VVe would call attention to a com- munication from N. D. Wetmo1‘e, of New Orleans, State Agent of Louis- iana, in relation to sugar, Molasses, etc , which will be found in a confi- dential circular sent out by us to Sec- retaries of subordinate Graugcs. . . ‘ea A h - require that members shall have a ce1'- ‘ 3 T’ We ave obselved orsrnns. We are prepared to furnish the best brand of Oysters at 25 cents per can when ordered by the case; the pur- chaser in all cases to pay charges from Detroit. Granges wishing oysters for feasts, parties, or any public doings, will make quite a saving by ordering through this agency. MccLx.\"roN’s IMPROVED sun FEED CUTTER. We can furnish this feed cutter to Patrons at 25 per cent off the prices named in the following price list: No. 1, 7 inch knife, hand power, 322 N 0. 2, 9 inch knife, hand power, 26 No. 3, 11 inch knife, hand power, 30 No. 4, 13 inch knife, horse power, 40 No. 5, 15 inch knife, horse power, 50 We would advise ordering No. 2 for hand power and N o 4or 5 for horse power. CHALLENGE FEED CUTTER. - George W. Green. of Brooklyn, Jack- son Co, Mi_ch., offers the Challenge Feed Cutter to Patrons for $22.50; retail price, $30.00. This feed cutter is recommended by Hon. J. J. Wood- man, Master State Grange; also M. Miles, Supt. Farm Department of .*Michigan Agricultural College, and 1 others. All orders should be sent to N. Chilson, State Purchasing Agent. non SLEIGHS AND currnns. lVe are prepared to furnish Bob Sleighs and Cutters to the Order at low rates. i’9ectur2r’s gepartment. - MUSKEGON. Election of Ollicers. There is not another meeting of the Grange in the whole year of such ; vitalvimportance to the growth of the We have completed arranaements Order’ as that of the annual election of officers. The last regular meeting in December, in each year, is the time for the annual election of officers, and that time is near at hand and to many will be past before another issue of THE Vrsrron. A word to all need not be said in vain. In our travels and visiting this that a large share of the ills abroad in the Grange are due directly or indirectly to an indiscreet selection of oflicers. These have often been aggravated and increased by the refusal of the membership to give that prompt, hearty and pat7‘onl_I/ support due those in oflicial position. Let us. then, not repeat the errors of the past, but make them lessons preparatory to our future action Let each member of our Order care- fully, in mind, review the duties of each officer in the Grange, bearing in mind that each one has respou.~ibili- ties and cares, and that each is a post of honor. Let us each remember too, that the future well being of the or- gauizatlon for the ensuing year, as single growers, or a great whole, de- pends much upon those whom we shall select to act as our servants, in the work. In general, let no one be thought of, or at least named for official’ posi- tion whose heart is not wholly in the work and thoroughly imbued with the noble principles of the Order, and whose hands and tongue are not ready to do valiantly in the defense of prin- ciple and truth, and the correction of error and wrong. Every officer elect should be chos- en. not for wealth position or popu- larity, but because of peculiar fitness for the duty assigned him or her, and a known devotedness to the best in- terests intrusted to his care ; not elected because they want place, but because the membership in true wis- dom judge them competent, earnest and faithful patrons, known for their fidelity to the obligation and to the ‘ interests of members, as well as a living Faith in the principles they profess, an ardent Hope in- the suc- cess of the purposes of our order, and Sure Charity towards all men. VVith such thoughts directing our actions and ballots in the selection of oflicers, followed by a hearty and earnest sup- port, who can" foretell the onward progress, for theensuing year, to the Grange. All officers should possess certain general qualifications, yet each should have a special fitness for the place he or she is to occupy. _VVhile all should be intellectually capable, great read- ers, &c., yet each should have those peculiar powers that but fit him for a given place. Two men, both intellectual and stu- dious, the one would make a good presfdiizg ofiicrr but not a good Secre- ~ tary, while the other would be an ef- ficient Secretary but fail as a Master. One person would, with great dignity and effect, give soul to the lectures of the Chaplain or Lecturer, while an- other would in as truly a dignified manner act as Steward, Asst Steward, or Gate Keeper. Be as careful in the selection of Overseer as Master, in Gate Keeper as Lecturer, and in chosing the lady officers forget not your duty to them and the Grange. Only regular and prompt attendants should be honored by position in the offices of a Grange. None should be allowed to receive votes for official position who are in arrears for dues, nor should they be allowed to Vote until such arrears are duly paid up. All selections should be by ballot, and a majority of all the votes cast are necessary to a choice. Notice of the time of election should be given at a previous meeting, so that all the members may be present informal ballots are not in order, but all ballots are formal and elect the candidate having the majority of all the votes. . Only 4th degree members in good standing can be elected to oflice or vote, and only in their own Grange. A Grange should never forget its dig- nity by eleeting a member to oflice for the mere honor of ofiicc, as is sometimes done. Let us in our elections prepare for a year of progress, and remember that “ whatever’ is worth doing at all, is‘ worth doing ac-ell.” . “ P. 1’. C.” is a little volume interest- ing to every Patron anxious to learn his duty. The Pat-ron’s Pocket Com- panion, by Past \Vorthy State Lec- turer J. A. Cranxer, of Kansas, is in- deed a valuable book for our Order, a Work long needed. The first part is devoted to the Constitution of the Order, By-Laws and Rulings complete of the National Grange, and the decis- ions of the Court of Appeals. The second division is the only manual of G-ramge Trials and the forms and prac- tices needed in them, we have ever seen, and for this alone the volume is indispensible. Part third is a full di- gest of Parliamentary rules adapted to Grange use; and while we may differ somewhat with the author, yet we commend this part of the Work heart- ily. Every Master should have it. Part fourth has the beautiful Installa- tion a11d Burial services of the Order, and a copious alphabetieally-arranged Index of all. VVhen we first read the book over we regretted that its publi- cation had not been deferred until the meetings of the National and State Granges this fall, and then the new rulings placed in it; but such changes are anticipated by the author in sup- plying blank pages for memoranda of changes that may be made. The whole work is neatly executed at the publishing house of R. W. Carroll & Co., Cincinnati, whom we thank for; having rendered us and our Order much signal service. State Secretary Cobb keeps the "1’. S P. C.” for sale; see his price list. Qantmuttirafiatts. rons of St. Joseph C0,, met in the hall of Centerville Grange on the 26th ult., and was organized by the elec- tion of VVm. B. Langley, Chairman, and W’. G. Leland, Secy. A Com- mittee on Credentials was appointed, and after their report was made and adopted the convention adjourned till 1 r. 31. When the convention again came to order, the County was districted and J. VV. Parker, Master of No. 332, J. L. Richards. Master of No. 236, and W. B. Langley, Master of No. 76, were elected Representa- tives, and were authorized to appoint substitutes if unable to attend the State Grange in person. , The following resolutions were of- fered, discussed and adopted: By Wm. Hull, of Centerville Grange. Resolved, That the fundamental laws of the State and National Grange should be so amended as to give to all fourth degree members the right to vote direct f'or every office in the or- ganization. By Henry Collins, of Oakwood. Resolved, That the fundamental laws of the Order should be so amended that no member shall be entitled to any place by virtue of holding any other position. By lVm. B. Langley, of Centerville. Resolved, That all oflieers of the 9 State and National Grange be elected K annually. By N. Russel, of Bur Oak Grange. XVIIEREAS, The Era and Nort/tern Granger in the issue of Oct. 21, 1875, y in an article entitled “A New Depar- ture” recommending the cutting loose from all connection with the State and National Granges, the dropping of our Tun County Convention of Pat-‘ Ritual, and making the Order an open organization ; AND VVIII-:n1:As, \Ve believe that all needed reforms will be granted by our represcnta'tives, when sought in a legitimate way; therefore, Resolved, That we condemn any such movement as ill-advised, hasty, subversive of that discipline and re- gard of official authoritynecessary to render any organization effective, and having a direct tendency to dissolve and scatter our Order. It’e.so.’vcd._ That while we shall labor in every legitimate way to place our Order 011 a foundation that shall work the greatest good to the greatest num- ber, we discountcnance any and every attempt at rebellion against our Con- stitution, Laws and legally constitu- ted authority. , By A. 1’. Shepardson, Corey Grange. Resolved, That we instruct our del- egates to inform the State Grange that St. Joseph County wishes all degrees above the fourth abolished. Moved that a copy of the proceed- ings of the convention be sent to the GRANGE Visrron and Em and Nerf];- em Granger. for publication. Carried. The convention then adjourned sine die. - W. G. LELAND, Secy. Three Rivers, Nov. 1, 1875. Kitlnlzoo, Oct. 26th, 1875. The Kalamazoo County Convention after electing Representaives to the State Grange, unanimously adopted the following preamble and resolu- tions, as reported by its committee: WHEREAS, We believe that all de- grees and oflices that are out of the reach of the masses of our Order, are fruitful sources of discord, and con- trary to the genius of the American mind, and are of themselves wrong; therefore, Resolved, That we are in favor of abolishing all degrees above the 4th. Resolved, That we are unalterably opposed to having any ofiiees within the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, but what each and every member of the fraternity shall be eligible to. Resolved, That we desire and ask our State Master to use his influence and all honorable means in his power at the next session of ’the National Grange to have the laws of the Order so changed as to satisfy our wishes as herein expressed. Resolved, That we will support any plan, that the National Grange will adopt, that will enable’ the members of the Order to get a confidential crop report, at least, once a month. Resolved, That we, delegates assem- bled in County Convention, of Kala- mazoo County, would hereby express our loyalty to the principles of our Order and to the oflicers thereof, and 111 asking for these changes we only ask what we justly claim belongs to each and every individual Grange of our fraternity. C. L. KING, R. A INGERSOLL, Com. M. Cox, ' Moved and carried that the Secre- tary furnish a copy of the proceedings of‘ the Convention to the GRANGE Vis- ITOR for publication. E. T. LOVELL, G. A. DOUGLASS, Sec. Cha'irpian. ...a.. . . -...,.._...1........_..~..-, _ :‘ ’.c~t:';'*.r9-'7! 9-‘ _?_____. PRICE LIST __()1«‘__ SUPPIJIIES 3 Kept in the ofiice of the Sccrctary-o'l ‘ x is £-'="-‘ Michigan State Grange ! And sent out Free of Clzmyw, mi I." ('1' ‘/2. .5 of C'as7i Order, over the Seal of .«.- llryllouds V Subordinate Grange, and the Signature of its Mamr or : Secretary. H Blanks for Consolidation of Granges, sent free on application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blank Applications for Organiziiig Pomo- mona Granges, sent free on application. Blank Orders for use of Granges or Pur- chasing Agents, pcr doz., l0 cts, per 100, {:0 Blank “Articles of Association” for the Incorporation of Subordinate Granges l I 'tliC fCh t ll lt l0 ' ' ' 3.3.1. ...°.l’.¥.°i... s:‘:.::;:‘, 1 Whitney Sewing Machine. l __ ! l i l B. SMEDLEY,'M&Bter Iowa State Grange. 1 l Ballot Boxes, (hard wood,) . . . . . . . . . . . . '25 Porcelain Ballot Marbles, per liunprzirige,P..ofH.&CounclI,S.ofl. w:llt:uy>any‘_thi4ngir1'N. Y. _mzirket,‘from first NERS, BIBLES, (JUSHINGRS MANUAL, ALL KINDS OF GRANGE BLANKS, GRANGE LETTER AND NOTE PAPER. Materials for regalia by the )ZilLl or piece. Golden Sickle brand of uiibleaclied cotton. Seats 1*‘ur'nishc¢l from $32.80 Plain, , _ , to $7.00 Elaborate. :tu;m‘.t|es. PYICCS and Samples mauled free Offce, 26 I 6!. 263 Greenwich St. near Murray. %§”Ple:_1se send for Price List) 35 (VHF «'1-l’tl~ . » _ cle is furnished at the lowest price. hands, for tiny Crzinge or Council in U. S_.,o‘r Cnnadas, ‘ifiordereci under Seal. No pay until t3i.iyer receives and approves goods. 9213 a Specialty. ' Cornmission. 2 per cent on rmglnal packages. 3 per ceritlon less ...,,..g._ was HINGTON. n. c.,, l was o:a:c:::~m:. WEOOLESALE GRANGE SUPPLY HOUSE, ! Chicago, CARRIES A FULL STOCK op BOOTS SHOES _v;u_S._Es_. TRIJNKS ETC. ETC. . Am) WILL SELL TO l Patrons of Husbandry, Farmers and Mechanics at Wholesale Prices. l We are the ORIGINAL GRANGE SUPPLY HOUSE. We have the largest Store and the largest Stock of the best Gogds kept by any house in the world, devoted to supplying the Consu- Price Lists with instructions sent by mail free to any address upon ENCES. SPENCER DAY, Business Agent Iowa State Grange. P. B. Mnxsox. Sec. Kansas State Grange. Jno. G. Oris. Bus. Agent Kansas State Grange. T1109. '1‘. SMITH. Sec. Minn. _SLate Grange. A. M. Con-isir. Sec. Missouri State Grange. WM. B. PORTER, Master Nebraska State Grange. H. E. HUXLEY. Sec. Wisconsin State Grange. J. B. Sitiru, Sec. Oregon State Grange. P. M. HINMAN, Sec. Colorado State Grange. COMMERCIAL LOAN Co., Bankers, Chicago, Ill. Please call and see us when in the city. Just-OVEY State street bridge. & 00., 246 to 254 Kinzie St., Chicago. I l “THE FARMEWS Hlllllll.” The great Grange paper. The farmers’ own journal. 500 farmers write for it. 60 farmers’ wives write for it. Circulates in thirty-six States. Circulates in six Territoroies. Circulates in Canada. Si xty-four columns every week. Sixteen pages of reading. Kept on file in 1,200 Granges. Read weekly by over 100,000 people. Only oificial organ of five State Granges. Market reports from the great cities. Practical experience by practical farmers. Crop reports printed weekly. N o middlemen agents. $1.50 a. year; or $i.‘25‘in clubs of 8 or over. Postage always prepaid by publishers. 12; cents a month to the close of any year. In clubs of 8 or over, 10; cents a month. Neatly printed ; “ big type ;” good paper. National Grange olficers write for it. Grange news from every State, Farmers are delighted with it, and say, "‘ Just what we have wanted.” Samples sent free and sent directly from the Grange Steam Printing House of five States. Address, THOMAS & DEMMING, MECHANICSBURG, PA. u 3 The Pa.troIi’s Pocket COMPANION. throughout the U. S. as “ A LITTLE G‘-IEDI,” I " '1'/ie book for an Order,”—“ most e'xcelleiit,‘’ ‘ '—“ work of much merit,”—“great service to the ()rder,”—“valuable little work.”-——“meets a long felt want,” &c., &c. Griiuges or Clubs supplied at reduced rates Price, $l.0() Morroco, Gilt; 604: Cloth. Send for descriptive circular. Apply to J. T. (30%. Sony State Grange, or to it. VV CARROLL & C0., Publishers, Cincinnati, 0. ‘ _ . j_ Is endorsed by the prominent men of the Order \\'REATHS FOR LADY OFFICERS, BAN~ 1