The doors of the Colfax GRANGE SUPPLY Co., Inc. were opened on March 2, 1934 after a year of planning that began with a meeting held on January 28, 1933. At the time, farmers were not able to purchase small quantities of fuel individually so they formed a cooperative to obtain the needed product. Fifty-one people were present at that start up meeting representing delegations from the Wilcox, Steptoe, Rebel Flat, and North and South Palouse granges. The newly formed cooperative purchased one 12,000 gallon tank and the fuel price was 15.9 cents per gallon. The company consisted of petroleum and a few hardware items. Sales were cash basis and the profit of the company was calculated monthly and dividends were paid monthly. In 1948 the company began delivery of petroleum products and started a credit program. Construction on the "new" building began in 1947 and was completed on December 10, 1948. Attendance included many important men from the community. The photo below was taken on the day of the Grand Opening for the new building.

In 1953 fertilizers were brought into the GRANGE and sold by Uni-Chem. Grange Wholesale later purchased the agronomy division from Uni-Chem and The Colfax GRANGE SUPPLY operated the plant. The GRANGE purchased the plant in the early 1970's and the agronomy plant contributes a good percentage of the total company sales today. The grocery line was dropped in the mid 80's. The old key locks were replaced with a new cardtrol system in 1985. Continue...