It All Began with the Jolly Corks
An Englishman named Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian arrived in New York in 1867 after a successful theatrical career in London. He wanted to imitate an English fraternity named after the (African) Buffalo, but others wanted an American animal, hence the Elk was selected for its peaceful and protective nature.
While in England, Vivian had heard the novelist Charles Dickens speak on benevolence. Inspired by Dickens, Vivian included the word “Benevolent” in our title: the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.
It All Began with the Jolly Corks
Starting as a group of actors and entertainers bent on having fun AND avoiding a New York excise tax in 1867 (Sundays were the ‘dry’ day), this convivial group called themselves the Jolly Corks (for a clever trick with corks they performed on the uninitiated to win rounds of drinks).
That same year, as membership grew, some members had the vision to become more helpful in the community. Alas, two feuding factions split the group over different philosophies.
Fortunately, one faction moved forward with its new ideals and, in February 1868, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was chartered. With a great new spirit and direction, it began to help Veterans, scouting, scholarships, and more--wherever Charity, Justice, and Brotherly Love were needed!
