Oliver Hudson Kelley organized the first grange in Washington in 1868. The Colora Grange in Cecil County was Maryland's first, established in 1873. The grange movement grew quickly, and by 1874, 110 Granges existed all over Maryland. The organization rapidly evolved from an agricultural fraternity to a largely commercial venture. When business failure hit in 1875, membership dropped and many Granges were disbanded. Since that heyday, the Grange has remained active not only in agriculture and things affecting agriculture, but also as a special action group, taking a stand on such issues as war and peace, relief, and education. By 1960, 45 Granges were active in the state of Maryland.
From the guide to the Maryland State Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry archives, 1873-2000, 1920-1980, (State of Maryland and Historical Collections)
