Order of Elks Kansas' first Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks was organized in Topeka in 1891. As the only lodge in the
state, it included members from across Kansas. Originally formed
in 1868 in New York, the Elks promote brotherly love, justice,
charity, and fidelity. The founding members were involved in the
theatrical business. Lodges became involved in communities and
supported the local charitable organizations. The organization
adopted its name from the American animal that lived in herds,
one of the largest native quadrupeds. The Elks organization
encouraged members to model the animal's traits: fleet of foot,
graceful in movement, quick and keen of perception, gentle and
timorous, strong and valiant in defending its own. Elks lodges
were established in other communities around the state including
Concordia in 1900, Newton in 1901, Wichita in 1905, and Junction
City in 1906. Entry: Order of Elks Author: Kansas Historical
Society Author information: The Kansas Historical Society is a
state agency