Fairfax Grange Chronicles · 1948
A Year of Community and Curiosities
Previously, in Part 10
1947 was a year of growth and celebration at the Fairfax Grange. Membership boomed, babies were born, and families gathered for picnics and dances. The hall got a fresh coat of paint, a new basement floor, and even baby beds for the little ones. But life wasn’t all lighthearted—there were broken wrists, strikes, and challenges aplenty. Through it all, the Grange stood as a beacon of community. (Read more: Part Ten )
Part Eleven – 1948, A Year of Community and Curiosities
The 1948 chapter of the Fairfax Grange story opened with a dinner for Kern County Employees . They planned for 120 plates but ended up serving 134 —a sign of how their reputation was growing. The Grange also recognized the need to start a Junior Grange , ensuring the next generation would carry on the tradition.
In March , things got interesting. A potluck was planned, and Brother and Sister Meyers from Oregon dropped by to share stories from their Grange. Mr. Rhodes from Rhodes Appliance Store wanted to rent the hall. He planned to serve dinner and show off his appliances. This was an early version of a marketing event. The Grange agreed to buy fire extinguishers just in case. Since they’d added two cribs last year, they also decided to buy high chairs for the little ones.
But 1948 had its share of challenges. Power shortages swept through the county. Pumps at the Grange were shut down one day a week to conserve electricity. In April , the Grange heard that cotton acreage was being cut due to water shortages . The Bakersfield Californian reported that low rainfall was causing PG&E to ask for an 80% reduction in power consumption .
Despite the strain, the Grange gave back. Dance proceeds were donated to support recreation funds at Fairfax School . There was also a report of a break-in at the Grange , though no damage or theft was mentioned.
May brought joy with a wedding. Sister Moss used the hall for her son Bill’s wedding . In June , the Charter was draped in honor of longtime member Sister Lizzie Morley . Later that summer, Sister Thompson reserved the hall for Ella Dean’s wedding on July 11 . The wedding was followed by the annual picnic at Jefferson Park on July 25 . Before the picnic, members rolled up their sleeves for a deep cleaning day at the hall.
Then came an odd note in the minutes: “Oil lease to be signed for the Grange. $10 per month for three years.” Was there oil under the Fairfax Grange? No details were given, but it left mystery.
In August , Brother and Sister Rapier attended the Costa Mesa Grange barbecue and dedication . The Kiwanis Turkey Dinner was such a hit the year before that Mr. Karpe booked it again , this time for 160 plates .
September brought a bargain from Tehachapi. Buy a sack of potatoes for 10 cents. You get your dime back when you return the sack.
October had a mix of good and bad news. Plans were made to donate to a family of eight who lost their home in a fire. Meanwhile, arrangements were underway for a masquerade ball —a much-needed dose of fun.
The year ended on a high note. Buddy Mestmaker built a frame for the original Fairfax Grange charter , which still hangs in the hall today. The Veterans Hospital sent a letter thanking the Home Economics Club for sewing robes for patients . Plans were made to install new officers at the January 8, 1949 meeting .
What’s Next?
The Fairfax Grange had survived power shortages, grown its membership, and kept the community entertained and supported. What surprises would 1949 bring? Stay tuned for Part Eleven .