What is the history of the Elks Club?
History. The Elks began in 1868 as a social club for minstrel show performers, called the “Jolly Corks”. It was established as a private club to elude New York City laws governing the opening hours of public taverns. The Elks borrowed rites and practices from Freemasonry.
Why is it called the Elks Club?
The animal from which the Order took its name was chosen because a number of its attributes were deemed typical of those to be cultivated by members of the fraternity. The Elk is distinctfully an American animal. It habitually lives in herds.
Are the Elks related to the Masons?
The BPOE adopted several fraternal traditions similar to the Masonic Fraternity. An “Exalted Ruler” governs each Elks Lodge as the “Worshipful Master” does in a Masonic Lodge. Elk Officers wear formal evening dress (tuxedos) during the Initiation Ritual and other ceremonials of the Order.
What is the purpose of Moose Lodge?
“The whole purpose and focus of the Moose is to give back to our community. It isn’t just a place to have a drink, and you don’t have be a drinker to have fun at the lodge. It’s all about helping out the community.” Two of the organization’s long-term projects are Mooseheart and Moosehaven.
How do you become a member of the Elks Club?
To be eligible for membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, you must be a citizen of the United States over the age of 21 who believes in God. You must be sponsored by a member of the Elks Lodge and reside in the jurisdiction of the Lodge you wish to join.
What’s the meaning of Elks?
Definition of elk 1 plural usually elk. a : moose sense 1 —used for one of the Old World. b : a large gregarious deer (Cervus elaphus) of North America, Europe, Asia, and northwestern Africa with the male having large antlers and many tines and that often form large herds.