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Elk Trivia
Jokes
Why no buffaloes?
Since 1868, America's foremost fraternal organization has been recognized by the
noble creature that is the symbol of the Order. The elk is a peaceful animal,
but will rise in defense of its own in the face of a threat. The majestic
creature is fleet of foot and keen of perception. A most fitting representation,
the stately elk is, for a distinctively American, intensely patriotic,
family-oriented organization subscribing to the cardinal principles of charity,
justice, brotherly love and fidelity. The Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks of the United States of America has, indeed, fulfilled those principles and
established a distinguished record of service and achievement since its founding
on February 16, 1868.
But the roots of the association are admittedly shallow, predating the Order's
official kickoff by only a few months. A small group of entertainers, wishing to
continue their social gatherings on Sundays, when New York's blue laws prevented
the opening of public establishments, began to meet regularly as the "Jolly
Corks," a name derived from a bar trick introduced by the group's organizer.
While the meetings were held with regularity, apparently no form nor substance
resulted, except for the adoption of a toast to members of the group not in
attendance.
Shortly before Christmas in 1867, only a few months after the fellows began to
meet, one of their numbers died, leaving his wife and children destitute. This
event gave rise to the notion that, in addition to good fellowship, the Jolly
Corks needed a more noble purpose in order to endure, and serving not only their
own in need, but others as well, would be appropriate.
Two months later, with a statement of purpose, an impressive set of rituals, a
symbol of strength and majesty and such other elaborate trappings that might be
expected of a group of actors and musicians, the new fraternal order was
launched. The growth and record of benevolence of the Elks is well-chronicled,
with Elks Lodges now in 2,200 communities and a membership of 1.3 million
Americans.
Why was the elk adopted as the symbol of the Order? The 15 founders of the
fraternity desired a readily identifiable creature of stature, indigenous to
America. Eight members voted to adopt the elk, seven favored the buffalo.
Name That Elk
Although the original Elks were actors and entertainers, members of other
professions soon joined the organization. Today's Elks represent just about the
full spectrum of occupations in America.
Throughout the course of the Order's history, many celebrities from the
entertainment field, business and public service have been Elks. Presidents
Warren Harding, Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman and John Kennedy were all Elks.
Former President Gerald Ford belongs to Grand Rapids, Michigan, Lodge, where his
father served two terms as Exalted Ruler (Lodge president).
Of course, many members of Congress have been Elks, too. Former Speakers of the
House Tip O'Neill, Carl Albert, John McCormick and Sam Rayburn all belonged to
the fraternity. Former Speaker Tom Foley belongs to Spokane, Washington, Lodge.
And the late Hale Boggs of Louisiana was also an Elk.
Entertainers Lawrence Welk, Will Rogers, Jack Benny and Andy Devine belonged,
too. Devine was even Exalted Ruler of San Fernando, California, Lodge. And Clint
Eastwood is a member of Monterey, California, Lodge.
From the sports world, the Order has counted among its members the likes of
Vince Lombardi, Casey Stengel, Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford and Jim Finks.
 
Golfer: "I've played so poorly all day; I think I'm going to go
drown myself in that lake."
Caddy: "I doubt you could keep your head down that long."
Golfer: "I'd move heaven
and earth to be able to break 100 on this course."
Caddy: "Try heaven. You've already moved most of the earth."
Golfer: "Well, I have never played this badly before!
Caddy: "I didn't realize you had played before, sir."
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