The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is a charitable, non-profit, organization whose membership promotes Americanism and Charity.
Elkdom in Olympia, Washington began as Capitol Lodge #186; installing Judge T. N. Allen as the first Exalted Ruler on New Year's Eve 1891. The membership was made up mostly of state officials with a sprinkling of Olympia businessmen.When a change of administration came in 1898, many of the members lost their jobs, some went away to the Spanish - American War and others to the lure of gold in the Klondike. This caused such a slump in membership that the charter was surrendered before the end of the 1897 - 98 Lodge year.
The spirit of Elkdom never left Olympia and by 1903 Olympia was ready for the organization of Olympia B.P.O.E. #186. Grand Lodge had been so sure that Olympia B.P.O.E. would reorganize they had saved our original number, #186, for us.
The present lodge, #186, which retained the old number, was instituted June 20, 1903, five years after the surrender of the Charter by Capital Lodge #186. G. C. Winstanley was installed as Exalted Ruler that same night by a vote of the charter membership. Throughout the years, the Olympia Lodge #186 has had its high and its lows. In the mid 1960's, we boasted a membership of nearly 2,400 members. As society changed and family interests changed, membership declined. Today we are over 600 members strong.
Local lodges, through essay contests, college scholarships, vocational grants, “Hoop Shoot”, veterans programs and charitable giving to community needs, quietly deliver the message ...
Need a venue for your next event? Come by and take a look at our space and see if it's right for you. Visit www.olympiaelks.org to view our rental brochure, or just stop on by to see the space for yourself!
