Rexville Grange needs members to hasten much-needed repairs

After almost a century of hosting potlucks, weddings and receptions, rummage sales, art shows, dances, memorial services, service projects, polling sites and parties, the Rexville Grange #815 on Summers Drive is showing its age.

Water seeps into the below-grade kitchen whenever it rains on Strawberry Hill. "That has caused a lot of rot in the lower cabinets, and damaged the water heater," says Cathy Savage, Grange president. With a kitchen unsuitable for cooking or catering, hosting indoor community events is next to impossible.

Installing a French drain on the north side would stem the seepage, but the Grange doesn't have the funds to excavate and buy the gravel needed to put the pipes in place - much less replace cabinets and countertops and fix the water heater.

All these tasks would be possible if the Grange enrolls more members "and makes the list," Savage says.

The list, that is, of Washington Granges that receive funds from the "Local Projects" section of the state's annual Supplemental Capital Budget.

In 2024, 12 Granges from legislative districts all over the state received a total of $973,000 to pay for electrical, plumbing, drainage, heating and HVAC, and roof repair, remediation or replacement and to address water issues.

To qualify, the Rexville Grange must convince the Washington State Grange that it merits funding. From the many Granges seeking support, the state organization creates a targeted list, invites local state representatives to visit those Granges, and lobbies Olympia for the funds.

Two key features are in the Rexville Grange's favor. First, it is one of the state's largest Grange buildings, because in 1946 its membership "raised the roof" by lifting the main hall up onto a new ground floor. It continues to foster community by partnering with local artists and craftspeople on the annual Rexville Grange Art Show and with Shakespeare Northwest to host outdoor summer performances in the adjoining quarry.

Second, it is an official Red Cross shelter. During the 1990 Fir Island flood, when the kitchen was in better shape, the Grange fed and housed 300 displaced people. Farmers can park farm machinery on the grounds anytime a flood threatens. Investing in the Grange, believes Savage, is a key way to prepare for a Skagit River flood event.

On the downside, Rexville has fewer than 50 members - but this negative can easily remedied. Membership is just $44 a year, and "gives you the warm heart you get knowing you're supporting farmers," says Savage.

One of five Granges left in Skagit County, the Rexville Grange is part of the country's oldest agricultural advocacy group. Advocating on behalf of farmers, the national Grange helped pass "Granger Laws" to regulate rates charged by railroads, supported rural free mail delivery, and opposed monopolies that fixed grain and livestock prices at a disadvantage to farmers.

While membership peaked in the 19th century, Granges still serve as the center of rural life in their farming communities. Nationwide, 150,000 Grange members meet in 1700 local chapters. Washington alone has over 200 Granges with about 8500 members. At the state and federal level, the Grange still advocates on behalf of farmers and rural residents. A current priority is Pharmacy Benefit Manger (PBM) reform legislation. PBMs control 80% of the prescription drug marketplace and were a factor in the closure of the La Conner Drugstore.

“Since the 1920s, the Rexville Grange has been a place of sanctuary and safety for local farmers and residents,” said Savage. “We are still here to serve the community, and we would love your help.”

For more information on joining the Grange or making a donation towards kitchen repair, send an email to [email protected].