William M. Ireland

William M. Ireland (d. 1891) was one of the seven founders of the Grange. He served much of his life as chief clerk in the offices of the U.S. Post Office Department. Also an avid Mason, Ireland added valuable knowledge to organizational systems and methods in the formative period of the Grange movement. His ability to be a critic and adviser in setting up the work of the Grange created a balance of knowledge and inspiration. His accounting abilities also aided in the system of financial policy within the Grange.

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