The Grange Consolidates Power in Snohomish
Grand Master Kegley secures a decisive victory at the 23rd annual session of the Washington State Grange, signaling a growing political alliance between farmers and labor unions.
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Election of officers of the State Grange occurred in Snohomish Wednesday. Considerable opposition to the re-election of Grand Master Kegley, of Palouse, had been expected, as some opponents to his policy had conducted a vigorous campaign. When the ballots were counted, Mr. Kegley received 226 out of 241 votes cast. Two hundred and fifty-three delegates were seated in the convention, and the total attendance was over five hundred. That portion of the report dealing with the alliance during the session of the legislature with organized labor to secure progressive laws was particularly well received. It is believed that a still more closely knit alliance between the two great forces will result from the convention.
“The farmer's life is not bounded by the geographical boundaries of his farm.”
This meeting highlights the historical political power of the Grange, which sought to unite rural farmers and urban laborers. Their successful push for the initiative, referendum, and recall in Washington remains the bedrock of the state's direct democracy today.
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