No Time Like The Present: Examining the Preservation of Maine's Grange Halls and Culture Through an Equity Lens

Abstract

This thesis explores the preservation of Maine’s grange halls through an equity lens. An overview of the history of the Grange in Maine establishes its historical importance, showing that grange halls are locally significant within their communities. A discussion of their role in women’s rights, advocacy for rural people and farmers, and ongoing traditions further show that grange halls have served as key third places throughout their history in the state. Many Maine Granges are struggling to maintain their historic buildings, despite the available resources for preserving important historic places.

I argue that examining issues of equity related to the preservation of grange halls helps identify barriers to their preservation and possible solutions. Although equity preservation has often focused on urban issues, the discussion remains relevant when considering grange halls across Maine. To demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach, I use case studies from confidential interviews, a survey, and research to analyze four types of equity as they apply to grange hall preservation in Maine.

With improved equitable access to preservation resources, Maine’s Granges can more easily maintain their historic buildings and preserve the longstanding traditions of the Grange across the state. Without it, they may lose the ability to steward these buildings, losing a vital third place and ongoing Grange traditions along with the halls.