Background

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) had modest beginnings in 1868 as a private club for enthertainers whose members were known as "The Jolly Corks". It was established to elude New York City municipal laws governing the opening hours of public taverns, particularly on Sundays.

The Elks have since evolved into a major fraternal, charitable, and service organization with over a million members, both men and women, throughout North America. Though, with younger generations seeking a very different kind of leisure, the Elks have steadily suffered a decrease in numbers, its membership simply dying out without replacement.

Our desire to create a record of the present-day Elks communities grew from our shared experiences of visiting lodges encountered during a cross-country road trip. As unexpected strangers, we were continually welcomed with fanfare and acclaim, since our combined age was less than the average age of the typical Elks member. What was initially perplexing became polarized by acute sensations of familiarity and disconnect, echoing impressions of home and belonging.

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