Fairfax Grange Chronicles · 1940
Legacy of Kindness: Fairfax Grange’s Response to the Crisis
An Act of God & An Act of Charity
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.”
— Oscar Wilde
Part Three – Rising to the Occasion
Previously, in Part Two: With land secured in July 1939, the Fairfax Grange began the challenging journey of turning dreams into reality. They formed building committees, secured bids, and worked tirelessly to raise funds. Through sheer determination—and a pivotal loan from Sister McCullough—they made incredible progress, laying floors, raising the roof, and finally holding their first meeting in the hall by August 1940. (Read the full story here: Part Two: Building Dreams, One Nail at a Time )
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Just a week after the Fairfax Grange celebrated the Grand Opening of its long-dreamed-of hall in late October 1940, a fierce storm swept across Bakersfield. The wind howled, driving dust through every crack and cranny, and as the storm gave way to rain, it left hundreds of farm workers from the Edison district homeless and struggling. Families huddled in cars, shielding themselves from the raging elements, with expectant mothers and children among the most vulnerable.
It was in this moment of crisis that the Fairfax Grange’s genuine spirit shone through. Newly opened, the hall could have been a place of celebration and rest. Instead, it became a refuge. Trustees and members— C.C. Kofahl , R.H. Jacobson , and Harry Stump —sprang into action, opening the doors of the Grange to provide warmth, food, and shelter to those in desperate need.
The community rallied together. Harry Stump prepared hot meals from supplies obtained by local welfare workers, feeding families who had gone two days without a proper meal. Mrs. Adlee Bice and Supervisor C.W. Harty gathered mattresses and cots, and soon the Grange hall was full of weary but grateful souls. Mrs. Jewell Potter , principal of Edison School , canceled classes to care for displaced families, and Ruth Teele from the Parent-Teacher Association called for bedding to keep children warm through the night.
In total, over 150 families found solace and support through the combined efforts of the Fairfax Grange and the wider community. Even in the face of the dust storm’s destruction, neighbors rose to care for one another, embodying the heart and mission of the Grange.
The Legacy of Service Lives On
The Fairfax Grange has always been more than just a building. It’s a beacon of hope, a place where people come together, not only to celebrate but to uplift one another in times of need. Reflecting on this moment in history, we remember the resilience and compassion that formed the basis of our Grange.
The storm tested their strength, but it also revealed their character. And just as the community healed, another challenge loomed on the horizon—one that would test the Grange’s resolve in a whole new way.
What was next for the Fairfax Grange? Stay tuned for Part Four to find out.