Franklin Elks Lodge Celebrates 75 Years of Charity, Community & More
Mounted high on the exterior of Franklin’s Elks Lodge is a faux elk mount, majestically peering over Jefferson Street. The elk represents the four cardinal virtues of the organization: charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was formed in 1868 in New York City by a group of comic actors who met privately to enjoy drinks and fellowship, escaping the Blue Laws, which enforced a day of rest and religious observance on Sundays. The group called themselves the Jolly Corks. When one member died unexpectedly, the group decided to help the destitute family left behind.
Charles Vivian, the group’s leader, saw an opportunity for a more noble purpose. The Elks name was adopted, and New York Lodge #1 became popular, inspiring lodges across the country, according to Franklin Elks member Bob Swinehammer.
Lodge #1818 was chartered in Franklin, Indiana, on June 4, 1950, with 66 members. Today, Franklin’s lodge is the largest in the state, with more than 1,000 members. It is housed in what was formerly the G.C. Murphy Company five-and-dime store at 56 E. Jefferson St., purchased by the lodge in 2013.
In the 75 years Franklin’s lodge has been active, more than 61 Exalted Rulers have led members in growing membership and serving the community. David Endris, the current Exalted Ruler, said the lodge celebrated its 75th anniversary this past summer with an open house, guest speakers, a reading of the lodge’s history, and a proclamation from Franklin Mayor Steve Barnett citing the lodge’s investment in renovations, contributions to the community, and 75-year milestone.
Endris says many people do not realize the Elks’ impact on the community, noting it is more than a building where members gather. The lodge is committed to charity and giving back. Since its charter in 1950, Franklin’s lodge has raised $10.8M for various charities. Last year alone, it donated $170,000. Franklin ranks first among 52 Indiana lodges in giving to the IU-PU Cancer Research Center, and three years ago, the lodge added a gift to the Notre Dame Brain Cancer Research Center.
Fundraising events include an annual golf outing and a reverse raffle to support cancer research.
Embracing the Elks motto, “Elks Care, Elks Share,” the lodge awards $1,000 scholarships to Franklin Community High School seniors and supports local youth through a Hoop Shoot Contest and a DARE program. Last year, the lodge contributed $22,000 to local nonprofit groups.
Endris, a 28-year-old member, said the lodge is always seeking new members. He noted they continue to add diverse membership. The cost of membership is $133, and applications are available at the lodge or through any current member.
