SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 35 



Education is the rock-bedded foundation of the organization 

 I have the honor to represent. 



Organization of the farmers of Michigan is but an outgrowth 

 of their desires to improve and to progress in such measure as 

 the present time demands. Farm families are separated by 

 broad acres, and the various helpful agencies, desirable but not 

 in natural evidence, must be provided and brought near at 

 hand through associated effort. The Grange is broad in con- 

 ception, conservative, and yet progressive in its work and 

 influence. Through frequent council and exchange of thought 

 it leads the farmers of the state to a position of self-respect and a 

 better understanding of a citizen's privileges and duties. 



The Grange has always been an ardent friend of the College, 

 and in fact of all of the educational institutions of our state. 

 Through its efforts and support this College has no doubt been 

 assisted to long steps forward in its efforts to provide for the 

 agriculturalists, the mechanics, the artisans, the home-makers, 

 and home-keepers of Michigan, an opportunity for preparation 

 to meet the many scientific and intricate problems natural and 

 inseparable from the duty they have assumed, to feed, to clothe, 

 and to add to the progress of the world. Because of the timely 

 and essential work in which the College is engaged, and because 

 of its eminently successful administration, I feel safe in prom- 

 ising a continued loyal support from the entire mass of agricul- 

 turalists of Michigan. 



Hoping for the College many returns of its semi-centennials, 

 and that it may always be alert in keeping up with the demands 

 of the interests and of the people it was organized to assist, in 

 behalf of the Grange Organization I say, Good-will and God- 

 speed ! 



