The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the United States of America was founded in the New York Area in the late 1800s. The Elks Organization was founded as social group with its primary activity to provide a positive influence to its fellow members and families. Since then it has grown to provide community activities and support with donation of funds to charitable organizations.

Richmond Lodge was founded in 1902 and has been in its present location since 1964. It is one of over 2,200 lodges throughout the U.S. and there are over 1,300,000 members nationally. To be an Elk you must be a citizen of the United States, express your belief in God and be willing to salute the flag of the United States of America.

Some of the many benevolent activities of Elkdom are:

• College Scholarships (Next to the Federal Government Elkdom is the largest giver of scholarships.
• National Hoop Shoot Contest
• National Soccer Shoot Contest
• Fund raising for Cancer research in Indiana
• Contributions and work with Military Veterans
• Memorial Service for deceased brothers (1st Sunday in Dec.)
• Flag Day Recognition
• National Home

Local Activities:

• Golf
     Regular play
     Tournaments
     Men's Tuesday Night League
     Ladies 9 and 18 hole groups
     Couples 9 hole groups
     Youth programs
     Many Charitable Benefit tournaments
• Swimming
• Cards- Men
     Ladies Euchre and Bridge
     Couples Bridge
• Bingo - Tuesday Nights
• New Years Dance
• Easter Dinner
• Mother's Day Dinner
• Cancer Party and Mitrione golf tournament
• Veterans Assistance
• Ladies of the Elks
• Banquets/wedding receptions
• Special occasion parties
• Full service Lunch and Dinners