| DECEMBER 1, 2025 -- Rekindling a Connecticut Tradition: The Return of the Dairy Dinner
One of the great joys of being your State Lecturer is visiting our local Granges and witnessing the creative ways members bring their communities together. Recently, I had the pleasure of attending Whigville Grange’s Dairy Dinner—a lively, welcoming event that reminded me just how powerful a shared meal can be. The evening was filled with laughter, good food, and fellowship, and it celebrated something deeply rooted in our Grange heritage: our connection to Connecticut’s proud dairy industry. After attending that event, I found myself reading about Riverton Grange’s long history of Dairy Dinners. Decades ago, Dairy Dinners were a staple of many Connecticut Granges. These gatherings not only honored our dairy farmers but also served as important fundraisers and opportunities for neighbors to enjoy wholesome, locally produced food. Milk, butter, cheese, and ice cream often took center stage, with recipes reflecting the bounty of our local farms and the creativity of our Grange cooks.
During the mid-20th century, Connecticut’s Grange halls were filled with the aroma of baked macaroni and cheese, creamed vegetables, and fresh rolls—followed, of course, by homemade ice cream. Dairy Dinners celebrated June Dairy Month and were often held in partnership with the state’s dairy promotion boards or local farm cooperatives. They strengthened ties between rural and town residents, showcased agricultural pride, and reminded all of us of the essential role that dairy farms play in our state’s economy and culture. In recent years, as smaller farms have disappeared and Granges have faced new challenges, many of these traditional events have faded. But seeing Whigville Grange’s success and reading about Riverton’s history convinced me that the time is right to bring back Dairy Dinners to re-engage our members and communities. These events can be simple or elaborate—anything from an ice cream social to a full meal—and they offer a wonderful opportunity for Lecturers to collaborate with local farmers, 4-H clubs, and agricultural organizations.
Reviving the Dairy Dinner tradition can accomplish several goals: promoting agriculture, strengthening community bonds, and showcasing the Grange as a vibrant, active organization. It’s also an excellent way for Community and Pomona Granges to celebrate our shared heritage while creating new memories for the next generation.
So, here’s my challenge: as we plan for 2026, I encourage every Community and Pomona Grange Lecturer to consider hosting a Dairy Dinner in your area. Build this into your monthly program. Consider applying for a $150 Community Grant for a new event/partnership for your dinner? Whether you’re reviving a long-lost tradition or starting a new one, I would love to hear your ideas and help you make it happen.
Let’s celebrate Connecticut’s dairy heritage together—one delicious meal at a time.
If your Grange is considering organizing a Dairy Dinner in 2026, please reach out to me at Lecturer@ ctstategrange.org or 860-469-5067. How can I help? |
