Brief Description: These records document the history of the Genesee Grange No. 1849 of Coleta, Illinois from 1934 through its dissolution in 1979.  Although records detailing the first three years of the Grange’s existence are missing, minute books (1934-1974) relate the social orientation of Genesee Grange meetings toward relieving the isolation of farming life through group discussion and entertainment programs.  A single treasurer’s account book (1938-1978) contains financial information on grange expenses for supplies, social activities, and dues.  In addition to the Genesee Grange records, a minute book and membership demits of Zion Grange of Savanna, Illinois detailed business and social concerns of that organization from 1963-1972.

Record Series Number: RHC/RC/102

Volume: 2.25 Linear Feet

Acquired: 07/01/1980. Additional records were added to the collection by Mrs. Paul Sites on May 14, 2004.

Access Restrictions: There are no restriction on access to the collection

Subject Index

Languages of Materials

Rights/Use Restrictions: Property rights in the collection are held by the Regional History Center; literary rights are dedicated to the public.

Acquisition Notes: Mr. Paul Sites  Mr. Paul Sites, Milledgeville, Illinois donated the Genesee Grange Collection to the Regional History Center on July 1, 1980.

Related Materials: Researchers should note a number of other collections held by the Regional History Center which relate in whole or part to the Grange organization:  South Grove Grange (RC 61), Etna Grange (RC 63), Hanover Scenic Grange (RC 64), Round Grove Grange (RC 68), Willowdale Grange (RC 80), Westfield Grange (RC 88), Milledgeville Grange (RC 101), Harmony Grange (RC 108), and the Laura Cooper Collection (RC 44).