Goshen, OR. — For more than a century, Goshen Grange #561, a 501(c)8 nonprofit, has quietly served as a cornerstone of the Goshen community. Founded in February 1917 by members of a national agricultural and fraternal movement, the Grange has long embodied its mission: supporting rural families, fostering education, and strengthening community life. Today, its volunteers are asking for help to complete a basic but essential project, replacing the building’s worn flooring, so they can continue their work.
The need for repairs became visible during a recent holiday bazaar, where volunteers were raising money for new floors. Among them was longtime member Linda Wetzell, who welcomed visitors warmly, offering baked goods and sharing the history of the Grange and its role in the community. Her dedication reflects the spirit of the organization, which has already raised about $5,000 of the $20,000 needed for the project.
Wetzell is dedicated to the work of the grange and noted many events that they host there.
“The Goshen Grange has about 30 members and we appreciate members of the community interested in joining us. We have a potluck the first Monday of each month and have special speakers come in at times. We are looking forward to our upcoming Valentine’s for Veterans event and we’ve been running that event for over 30 years. The Grange also has a pie auction and social coming up in May, last year we raised about $1,200 at that auction and will take orders. Our centennial celebration in 2017 was a big event for us with around 75 people in attendance.”
She went on to discuss the role it serves in the surrounding community.
“We reach out to a lot of the community in the area, and offer many different events, including participating in a big 4th of July event, having a harvest dinner, and are looking to offer a community Thanksgiving dinner in the future. The grange is open to rent for members of the community providing space for many events including Alcoholic Anonymous. We want the grange to be a part of the community, and the community to be a part of the grange.”
The Grange traces its roots to a national organization founded in 1867 that championed fair wages, lower food costs, and the needs of rural Americans. Its values — service, education, and community — continue today. Modern Grange halls host everything from markets and dances to public meetings and classes, while remaining nonpartisan, nonsectarian, and committed to being an open and welcoming space for community members.
Supporters say the new flooring will ensure the building remains safe, accessible, and functional for the many groups that rely on it. After more than 100 years of service, the Grange hopes the community it has supported for generations will help it continue that legacy.
Donations will help the organization reach its $20,000 goal and preserve a gathering place that has shaped the spiritual, social, and civic fabric of Goshen for more than a century.
About the Author
