| SEPTEMBER 2, 2025 -- In 1930, the members of the Connecticut State Grange collected $500 to purchase 20 acres of land to be donated to the new Peoples State Forest in Barkhamsted, CT. The plot of land was then known as the King Farm.
Decades later, in 1976, members of the Grange gathered at the Forest in celebration of the Bicentennial, joined by National President John Scott and his wife Dorothy. During the celebration, a Norway spruce was planted with a plaque commemorating the planting of the tree and the celebration.
In 2023, State Lecturer Dave Roberts returned to the Forest to take pictures of the plot for the upcoming State Grange History Book. Unfortunately, the tree and its plaque, along with memory of their location had faded into history.
Following extensive research by Dave Roberts, Janet Haller (Cheshire Grange) and Paul Hart of the Barkhamsted Historical Society, the plot was relocated and efforts were made with the cooperation of Park Rangers to mark the parcel for generations to come.
In keeping with the original purchase of the land, individual members were asked to contribute money towards the new marker, rather than having the State Grange purchase the plaque outright. Over 30 donors stepped up to donate the funds to purchase the plaque which ended up costing more than double the original cost of the land in 1930.
Judy Doyle of Riverton Grange selected a suitable boulder that was found on the plot. The boulder was moved by the Town of Barkhamsted to its new site along Park Rd. and the new plaque was permanently affixed.
On Sunday, August 24 nearly 50 members gathered at the monument for the unveiling by State President Robert Buck and Paul Hart.
In his remarks, Mr. Hart gave history of the previous owners of the property along with the King family. Some attending the unveiling recalled passing by this property when the brick farmhouse was still standing and the driveway was where the new monument stands.
We were honored to have the Riverton American Legion Post #159 color guard on hand to present the colors and to honor the military with a rifle salute.
Following the ceremony, over 85 Grangers, friends and guests enjoyed a pulled pork dinner at Riverton Grange Hall, catered by the Barkhamsted Seniors and served by members of Riverton Grange. |
