The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (also often known as the Elks Lodge or simply The Elks) is an American fraternal order and social club founded in 1868. It is one of the leading fraternal orders in the U.S., claiming nearly one million members
The Elks had modest beginnings in 1868 as a social club (then called the "Jolly Corks") established as a private club in New York City. After the death of a member left his wife and children without income, the club took up additional service roles, rituals and a new name. Early members were mostly from theatrical performing troupes in New York City. It has since evolved into a major American fraternal, charitable, and service order with more than a million members, both men and women, throughout the United States and the former territories of the Philippines and the Panama Canal.
