| MAY 11, 2012 -- There aren’t many people in our fraternity who don’t know the name Beecher, or know of the contributions made to the Order by members of the family. Kingsley Beecher is a prime example.
The Grange played an important part in the lives of Kingsley and his wife, Betty. He was active in every possible way in Winchester Grange and Mountain County Pomona being an outstanding Master of both Granges. The highest office he achieved in the Grange was that of Assistant Steward of the National Grange.
He grew up with not only a love of Grange, but with that of country fairs. When he became State Master, he presented numerous ideas for consideration of the Patrons. The National Grange celebrated a milestone anniversary (100 years) so he appointed a group of people to head the Connecticut celebration. Our state event met with so much success, he decided he didn’t want to let the group go and called them to a special meeting with the idea of establishing a state fair. He appointed them as the charter board of directors of what was to become the Connecticut Agricultural Fair.
He was instrumental in starting the State Grange Credit Union which along with the fair became an important part of our history.
The Beecher Family Installation Team, started by King, placed into office the leaders of many, many Granges for more than thirty-five years with Brother Bud taking over as Installing Officer when King felt he had to “retire”.
Kingsley was capable at doing programs with a great sense of humor when creating numbers such as the popular one where he taught everyone how to make a “King Sandwich.” He was sensitive, yet really a big softy- the kind of a fellah who could cry at television commercials.
In addition, there were many outside interests including a stint in politics which resulted in his being Mayor of Winsted.
Kingsley was called King – and it can be said he wore his “crown” very well.
Do Remember King! |
