Freedom has many organizations, such as Pack and Troop 444, the Grange, the fire stations, and many more. Most of which have been around for a very long time. On May 7, 2026, the Big Knob Grange will celebrate its 90th Anniversary.
The Grange began at the old Baker’s School on April 29, 1936. The State Grange approved the original charter list of 51 members. Kenneth Brenner agreed to give land on Glen Eden Road for the first Grange to begin in July. The last meeting at that location was held on September 20, 1950. The new building had difficulties after nearly being burned completely. The replacement of the hall’s interior, except the kitchen, was completed in August for the fair’s opening.
The Grange is a part of multiple other granges under the National Grange. The National Grange is a community organization founded in 1867. Community, County or District, State, and National are the four levels of the Grange. The National Grange has been around for 158 years, and the Big Knob Grange was founded 89 years ago.
“[The Grange holds] Community events, a lot of community service. Doing events that bring the community together. I like helping the community and doing community service,” Kaydence Stang (8) said, describing the Grange.
Kaydence Stang is the president of the Grange’s daughter. She spends most of her time there and receives community hours from working with the Grange.
“The Grange is more than a building or fairgrounds. It’s a place where neighbors come together to serve, celebrate, and support one another. It’s about working to preserve tradition while finding new ways to meet the needs of our community. I’m proud to be part of a tradition that’s been growing community roots for nearly 90 years,” Mrs. Megan Stang, president of the Grange, said.
Mrs. Megan Stang has been a member of the Grange for nine years, treasurer for six, and last year was elected president. In her current role, she leads monthly meetings, welcomes and encourages new members, oversees community service projects, appoints subcommittees for specific initiatives, ensures the building and grounds of the Grange are well maintained, and handles legal documents. Another part of her job is brainstorming for the community and looking for new ways to serve and support the community. For the Big Knob Fair, she serves on the Fair Committee and has many jobs. Her main title is marketing and sponsorships.
The Big Knob Grange holds community events and monthly meetings and has many things to provide. The Big Knob Grange website says they provide “agriculture, rural community development, education, and advocacy for policies that support rural and agricultural interests.” The Grange also hosts member-only meetings. The purpose is to help the community or to make friends.
“You sign an application and then you can get sworn in,’” Kaydence says, describing the process to become a member.
When you turn 14, you become eligible to become a member of the Grange. When you become a member, you can vote and have an opinion. The National Grange has a Junior Grange program for ages 5-14. Kaydence is hoping to become a member of the Grange next year and is working towards it.
The Big Knob Grange is a community location for everyone, like the Big Knob Fair. The Grange hosts many events that are all dedicated to the community.
