Lodge History

In 1895, a delegation of sixteen Elks, accompanied by a special guest – a goat – chartered a train from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo to establish SLO Elks Lodge #322. The lodge was officially instituted on November 9, the date we now celebrate as the lodge’s anniversary. Prior to that, the lodge had already been active under a dispensation letter dated September 23, 1895, with its official charter later granted at the Grand Lodge Conference in July 1896.

In 1903, the lodge purchased property at the northwest corner of Marsh and Morro streets, and by 1906, construction on its first building had begun. However, by the 1950s, the building was no longer up to code, and the necessary repairs were beyond the financial reach of the membership, leading to the sale of the property. In 1958, the lodge acquired its current location, and construction was completed in 1960.

As we reflect upon our history, we recognize that we are not mere spectators but active participants in a legacy that transcends time. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and it is our responsibility to uphold the values they held dear. With every action we take, and every act of kindness and service, we add another layer to the rich tapestry of the Elks’ history.