| AUGUST 20, 2012 --
The Cannon Grange, one of Wilton's oldest organizations, celebrated a milestone Sunday, holding its 80th annual fair.
Originated in 1933, the grange's agricultural fair offers exhibitions in baking, fruits and vegetables, flowers, sewing and needlework, crafts, photography, eggs, homemade spirits, and farm animals. The exhibits are judged and awarded ribbons for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention prizes in each category. Winners of the contests go on to compete in statewide competitions.
In addition to the agricultural competitions, local musicians also provided entertainment Sunday at the annual event, while fair-goers also had a chance to participate in activities such as face painting, a watermelon-eating contest and a rubber duck race along the Norwalk River.
"We're still able to produce and present an authentic fair that still entertains and educate the public in terms of what Wilton was like 50 to 100 years ago as a rural farming community," Don Offinger, president of the Cannon Grange, said before the event.
Offinger is a native of Wilton, who has served as president for the last 22 years.
Founded in 1899, the local Cannon Grange recently celebrated its 113th anniversary. Offinger said the organization dates back to 1865, as a response to the reconstruction following the Civil War.
Today, the organization is nationwide operating in 38 states. There are 64 chapters in Connecticut alone. Wilton's chapter is one of the oldest operating organizations in the town and it continues to contribute to the town of Wilton significantly.
"Over the years, we've done an assortment of different things," said Offinger. "We've provided scholarships to students at Wilton High School, Norwalk High School and (Brien) McMahon High School. We've supported Wilton Little League by providing uniforms."
Recently, the local Grange participated in combating childhood obesity. The local chapter was recently recognized as partner of the year in the EPA's waste wise program for excellence in recycling and waste management.
"Public health is a big thing for the Grange," added Offinger.
The local chapter currently has 52 members. Membership dues are $35 per year.
"We're still thriving but would love to have more members," said Offinger. "Membership is open to anyone regardless of residency."
Members meet twice a month at the Grange Hall.
For more information, visit www.CannonGrange.org. |
