Stories of the hall and its people · Our people
Celebrating Community: The Fairfax Grange Mortgage Burning
Previously, in Part 6
In 1943, the Fairfax Grange tackled every challenge with grit and humor. They patched leaky walls, raised soda prices to pay the orchestra, and danced their way through rationing. They supported the war effort by sewing for the Red Cross and buying war bonds. Most importantly, they slashed their hall loan in half. The year ended with 99 members and high hopes for the future. (Read the full story here: Part Six: Steadfast in the Storm )
Part 7 – Burning the Mortgage and Lighting the Way
“Problems are just opportunities in work clothes.” – Henry J. Kaiser
If you’ve never seen a mortgage burning, you’ve missed a sight to behold. It’s more than paper going up in flames. It’s years of hard work, sacrifice, and determination reduced to ashes. In 1944, the Fairfax Grange celebrated this milestone with style.
The year began with pride. In January, the hall hosted the officer installation for six Kern County Granges: Pomona , Rosedale , Weedpatch , Panama , Tehachapi , and Fairfax . Neighbors gathered to admire the hall and share stories. The Fairfax Grange stood tall, ready to serve its members and the community.
The first months of 1944 were busy. The Grange held dances to raise money. It hosted USO events, graduations, and baby showers. They also kept a close eye on water issues for valley farmers. Every spare dollar went to pay off the hall loan. By May, the end was in sight. Plans for a Mortgage Burning Party took shape.
The Grange didn’t forget its duty to the war effort. During the 5th war bond drive , they offered free dinners at their next dance to anyone who bought a bond. The result? They served 61 free dinners . They sold a stack of bonds including 65 for $25, 14 for $50, 26 for $100, and one for $1,000. The Director of Agriculture Division War Finance Committee sent a certificate of appreciation. However, Fairfax cared more about their contribution than the recognition.
Of course, the year had its minor irritations. Boldly, the orchestra requested another $6 raise, bringing their fee to $36. The Grange sighed, debated, and approved it. The dances mattered too much to let the music stop.
In August, they made the last payment on the loan. They signed the papers and set the date for September 30, 1944. On that day, the Grange gathered for the Mortgage Burning Party . It was a grand event, a mix of relief and celebration. With the loan gone, the Grange could focus on its true mission: serving the community.
True to their spirit, they gave back almost immediately. In early September, they contributed to the Student Loan Fund . Their generosity extended beyond money. They worked to create opportunities for the next generation.
As the year ended, the Grange reflected on their success. Their net proceeds totaled $2,989.53, a remarkable achievement. But the actual story was in the giving. The Grange believed in their community, and their community believed in them. Someone may have summed it up best: “The world gives to givers.”
What’s Next?
With their loan behind them and the community rallying around, the Grange stood ready for whatever came next. What challenges and triumphs would 1945 bring? Stay tuned—this story is far from over.
John Harrer President , Fairfax Grange 570
john.harrer@gmail.com
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