Williamstown Historical Museum explores the history of Grange and Grange Hall / iBerkshires.com

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

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

The National Grange was founded in 1867. The Grange was formed in Williamstown in 1888. The Water Street building was built in the 1930s and used until the Carlisles purchased it in 2005.

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

“I looked forward to this fair so much every year!” she said. “While we still do the rituals, discuss the state of the agricultural industry, and hold seasonal agricultural programs at our monthly meetings, there used to be many social events – dinners, fundraisers, entertainment . It seemed like everyone belonged to the Grange back then, so there were always a lot of people at Grange events.”

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

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