On this day in Iowa

September 16, 1874

Iowa boasts the highest number of Granges in the nation at 1,999. The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry or simply, "the Grange," is an fraternal organization for farmers and their families. Founded in 1867, the Grange is the oldest surviving agricultural organization in America.

From Deep Roots: Iowa Heritage Calendar 1976 by Beth Ann Conklin.