Spirit of Jefferson. [volume] (Charles Town, Va. [W. Va.]) 1844-1948, 1875-11-16
THE GRANGE, WHAT rs TIP

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This question is frequently asked by those
seeking information for their own guidance,
whilst others ask it derisiyely. We would
answer that the lagrange" embraces, in its
scope of action, all that its most interested
friends or ardent admirers could wish or ex-
pect,-and is only dependent upon the good
faith and zeal of ench and every member to
enable it to astonish the most sauguine in its
results upon the social, moral, intellectual,
frugal and industrial habits, of the great ag-
ricultural body of this vast nation; yea, more.
its rcformntory aims are such as to commend
themselves to every honorable, honest and
just man and woman in our land. Socially,
it brings together all ON terms of equality re-
stricted only, by that comfy, which char
sotcrizes the most refined society. and dis
perscs its charities without ostentatiou. throw
ing around the unfortunate tho sustaining arm
of support and relief.
Morally, it requires great probity and cir
cumspection in the conduct, dealings and ac-
tions of its members.
intellectually, it commends aud cultivates
the highest order of discipline and mental
training, regarding rural life and agricultural
pursuits-the normal condition Of man kind
as best suited to the vigorous and healthful
Development of manhood. and womanhood.
1t detects in the book of nature pure, refined
and inspiring lessons, independent and en-
nobling in their Influence, and which draw
around them the halo Of virtue and divine
wisdom.
Frugality is an essential to the thrift and
success of the husbandman, it is fostered by
the domestic economy, and realized in the CO.
operative system Of the ''Grange"
Industry, energy and push are recommended
as the instrumentalitcs to wealth, position
and influence. Labor, yes, honest toll is en-
nobling, it carries with it tho freshness Of the
primitive cnliDg Of man, aud, although it
hArdens the muscles, browns the skin aud
tires the body, tits compensated by the sweet
consciousness of obeying the behest of mans
Creator, "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou
eat bread. .-.5 H...-. .--r
It's rcformatory objects are aimed at mo-
uopoIies, extortioners, dishonest and incom-
petent officials, expensive forms of general,
State aud local governments, equality in the
blessings, as we'll as burthcns of State the
abolition of courts SO far as is compatible with
the public safety.
With the foregoing frank and plain state
ment of what the "Grange" is, its aims and
objects, who can demur at its proceedings
The question has been asked, how can these
reforms be brought about? The answer is
brief and simple; let every one who approves
of the elevation of society, and the perpetuity
of good government. unite with us in our
efforts to establish the one, and purify the
other.
Its membership eschew partizan slavery,
criticise old party dogmas, finding that class
Legislation such as subsidies of public lands
to railroad 'monopolies, high salaries to Office
holders high tariffs. high rates of interest,
("s are induced by the present National Bond
System heavy taxation, with deprecated
currency, oil work depletion to the value of
property and labor and sure ruin to the masses
Surely these are mammoth considerations
calling for the giant hand of reform. and none
have deeper interest or are SO well qualified
for the work, as the thoughtful, sturdy. pro-
ductive farmer. p. OF FL.
Halltown, ". Va.