MONROE, CT — Participants at Harmony Grange’s 86th annual Agricultural Fair competed in agricultural and amateur photo contests Saturday, bought jewelry and crafts made by Grange members, saw lectures and exhibits, and enjoyed burgers and baked goods.
Children made their own jewelry and played outdoor games at the property on 103 Hurd Ave.
Cynthia Giancaspro, a professional horticulturalist and owner of Garden Pro LLC, gave a presentation entitled, “Turfgrass for Homeowners. Another presentation was given by Jim Ritter of the Pollinator Pathway.
“The Grange movement began in 1867 to improve the lot of farmers,” according to an Agricultural Fair booklet. “Prior to that the railroad companies had a monopoly on the grain elevators and could control the prices farmers paid for their produce.”
Harmony Grange No. 92 had its first meeting at Monroe Congregational Church on January 18, 1889 and has been holding agricultural fairs since 1937. The Grange currently hosts monthly meetings for members and public events once a month.
“We’re always looking for new members and people interested in renting the Grange Hall,” Giancaspro said.
Harmony Grange’s Hall has a dance floor and a stage. Among the events held there, were a music night and a coffeehouse night, according to Giancaspro.
To rent the Grange for an event, call Sue Simmons at 203-414-8473. Those interested in becoming a member should send an email to [email protected].
Skate Time started out as the Al Brundage’s Country Square Dance Hall on July 4th 1948.
Many dancers met their future marriage partners here. We enjoyed the Saturday
night square dances and had my wedding reception here with a square dance for the
reception. My parents, Ben and Marion Hurd had a group of four couples who would
demonstrate the dances for Al Brundage and The Pioneers at Danbury Fair, dance festivals
Great Barrington Fair in MA and when the various charities were raising money for their projects. The dance hall was a wonderful place to go to for good clean fun.