Francis M. McDowell

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Francis M. McDowell (1831 – 1894), an American banker and farmer, was born of British Ancestry in Wayne, New York. He was a partner in the banking firm Hallett and Company in New York City, traveling frequently to Europe to raise capital for railway construction. After a serious illness, he returned to his hometown and became a grape grower. Through McDowell's efforts the Grange organization formed a central division to coordinate efforts and standardize local chapters. His recommendation formed the basis for the ritual work of the National Grange. He served as the National Grange Treasurer for 21 years from January 1873 until Novemebr 1893.

The other founders of the Grange were: Oliver Hudson Kelley, William Saunders, John Trimble, Aaron B. Grosh, John R. Thompson, William M. Ireland and Caroline A. Hall.