#OnThisDate February 16, 1868: From Jolly Corks to Elks

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In New York City, A Group Of Entertainers Transformed Their Informal Gathering, Known As The "Jolly Corks," Into The Benevolent And Protective Order Of Elks (BPOE). This Pivotal Change Marked The Beginning Of A Fraternal Organization Dedicated To Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, And Fidelity.

The Story Begins On November 15, 1867, When Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian, An English Comic Singer, Arrived In New York City. Seeking Camaraderie, He Connected With Fellow Entertainers, Including Richard R. Steirly, A Pianist At The Star Hotel. Together, They Formed A Social Group To Circumvent The City's Blue Laws, Which Prohibited Public Establishments From Operating On Sundays. They Named Themselves The "Jolly Corks," Inspired By A Bar Trick Introduced By Vivian.

In December 1867, The Sudden Death Of Member Ted Quinn Left His Family Destitute. This Tragedy Prompted The Group To Consider A More Purposeful Direction. George McDonald Proposed Evolving Into A Benevolent Organization To Support Members And Their Families In Times Of Need. After Deliberation, The Members Agreed, And On February 16, 1868, They Established The Benevolent And Protective Order Of Elks, Electing Charles Vivian As The First Leader.

Selecting An Appropriate Emblem Was Crucial. The Founders Sought A Creature Embodying The Values They Aspired To Uphold. The Elk, Native To America, Symbolized Strength, Dignity, And Vigilance. After A Vote, The Elk Was Chosen Over The Buffalo By A Narrow Margin, Reflecting The Members' Desire For An Emblem Representing Noble Qualities.

The Newly Formed BPOE Quickly Distinguished Itself By Adopting Rituals And A Structured Organization. The First Lodge, Known As New York Lodge No. 1, Was Established, And Membership Grew As The Elks' Reputation For Charity And Fellowship Spread. By 1871, The Organization Had Expanded Beyond New York, Leading To The Establishment Of Additional Lodges Across The United States.

The Transformation From The Jolly Corks To The Benevolent And Protective Order Of Elks Laid The Foundation For A Lasting Fraternal Organization Committed To Community Service And Mutual Support. Today, The Elks Continue To Uphold The Principles Set Forth By Their Founders, Making Significant Contributions To Charitable Causes And Fostering A Sense Of Brotherhood Among Members Nationwide.

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