Since 1974, the Mount Lookout Grange Hall has served a dual purpose in the community. On weekdays, Mancos Head Start occupied the building, which it rented from the Grange, while Grange events were held in the evening and on weekends.
Now that Mancos Head Start has a new facility, an opportunity exists for Grange Hall to be used differently.
On April 28, 1917, 27 people formed the Mount Lookout Grange, which continued as an active part of the community for many years. In 1950, the organization purchased the former Lutheran Church building. Head Start began renting the space in 1947. For the past few years, in the absence of an active local organization, the Colorado State Grange has been in charge of the building.
At a recent open house, one idea brought forward was that Mancos needs an affordable community building in which groups can meet for classes, workshops, community gatherings, youth group activities, wedding receptions, anniversary parties, food distribution, art shows and other events.
In order for the Grange Hall to serve as that facility, a group of individuals needs to come together to reactivate the Grange and serve as members and officers.
Nationwide, the Grange is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, fraternal organization that advocates for rural America and agriculture, with a strong history in grass-roots activism, family values and community service. Members are given opportunities to learn and grow to their full potential as citizens and leaders. The family is the base of the organization, with full membership beginning at age 14. Women have been equal members since the inception of the Grange. Faith, hope, charity and fidelity are the basic lessons of the Community Grange. The Grange has four levels, community (Subordinate), County (Pomona) or District, State, and National to ensure that the membership's voice is heard at the appropriate place. The membership sets the direction and activities for their community Grange. Nonpartisan legislative advocacy, educational programs, service projects, and social interaction and networking are just a few ways local Granges serve their communities and members.
Additional information about the Grange can be found at www.nationalgrange.org.