The Cottage Grove Grange, which became a leader in the state and national Grange movement, had its meeting hall near this site shortly after the Civil War. As a community center it became a significant cultural and social influence for pioneer farm families. The spirited discussions held here focused attention on the expanding importance of agriculture, the rampant malpractices of railroad companies, and the growing national farmers' movement.
William R. Taylor, local farm leader and Master of this Grange, was elected the Granger Governor of Wisconsin in 1874. He became a contributing force in the efforts to regulate railroads in the state. Ultimately, from these efforts and with the support of the Granges throughout the state, the Railroad Commission was established, later to become the Wisconsin Public Service Commission.
These achievements boosted Wisconsin to a preeminent position as a national leader in public utility regulation.
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