LODGE ROOM SUPPLIES.
IMPROVED
BEtfEVOUENT and
PROTECTIVE
L,
ORDER
WORbD
Application Blanks per doz. 25c
Aprons , each 22c
Badges " 65 c
Ballot Boxes " $1.50
Banner $60 to $100
Brushes each 25c
Cards and Cases 35c
Club? " 35c
—Dispensations " $1.00
Elk Pins of I. B. P. O. E. W $1.00 to $5.00
Emblem for Altar $15.00
Financial Cards. per doz. 25c
Flags each 75c
Gavels. " 25c
Grand Lodge Laws " 10c
Instruction books I " 10c
Jewels, ii pieces * $25.00
Minute books ' $1.00
X)5es 77777. 7.7. per doz. 50c
Officers' Aprons each $2.00
Officers' Badges " $1.00
Razors " ^oc
Rituals " $1.00
Robes " $1.75
2 Torches
Lair.
Roll books
Seals
Spankers
2 Straps
Subordinate Laws.
Visitors' Register.
i Spirit Lamp
4 Towels
i Box Upholstering
i Vial Bitter Wate:
1 Can of Blood.
2 Hoodwinks
1 Set of Double Do|rs
Baton for Esquire
2 Robes
i Bell
Bier and Pall
i Pair Curtains
Transparency I. B.JP. O. E. W.
Stuffed Club !
Black Robe
Black Beard
Razor Strop
Bunting Flag
$3.25
$1.50
$1.00
$3.00
$1.00
10c
$1.75
50c
50c
10c
25c
30c
20c
$10.00
$4.00
each 1.75
$5.00
$5.50
P^50«
$5 00
25c
$1.75
25
. 25
$1.50
ACCOMPANY ALL ORDERS WITH MONEY ORDER.
r
For other articles communicate with this office.
B. F. HQWARD,
60 Lynn Street, Covington, Ky.
GF
AND EXALTED RULER
OF THE
SUBORDINATE LODGES
UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE
GRAND LODGE
Improved, Benevolent and Protective
ORDER OF ELKS
OF THE WOULD.
PUBLISHED BY THE GRAND LODGE I. B. P. O. E. of W.
ie©s.
B. F. HOWARD.
SUBORDINATE LODGES.
Special attention of all Subordinate Lodges is invited to Section 22 of
the Constitution of the Grand Lodge.
Section 22. A Subordinate Lodge, under dispensation or charter, shall
consist of an Exalted Ruler, an Esteemed Leading Knight, an Esteemed
Loyal Knight, an Esteemed Lecturing Knight, a Secretary, a Treasurer, an
Esquire, a Tiler, a Chaplain, an Inner Guard, an Organist, who shall be
elected and appointed as provided by law, and a Board of Trustees. And
seven Elks, working in pursuance and by virtue of <he authority of the
Grand Lodge, shall constitute a quorum to transact any business.
All District Deputies and Exalted Rulers of Subordinate Lodges shall
enforce upon their subordinates a strict adherence to the work and Ritual
of the Order, according to the forms furnished by the Grand Lodge of the
I, B P.O. Elks, and shall be held responsible for any irregularities that they
may allow under their respective jurisdictions. They shall neither adopt or
use, nor suffer to be adopted or used, in their jurisdictions, any other
Charges, Lectures, Forms, Ceremonies, Forms of Installation, or Regalia,
than those prescribed, by the Grand Lodge of the I. B- P, O, Elks, with the
opprovai of the Grand Exalted Ruler.
(Each Lodge must have prepared a convenient book, with the following
questions:
Questions. Answers,
What is your name?
Where do you reside?
What is your occupation?
How old are you?
Were you ever proposed, susp ended
or expelled from any Lodge of Elks?
Are you in good health?
Do you believe in the existence of a
Supreme Being?
(Signature)
Signature of Tiler as witness
(Secretaries when they retire must see that each candidate answers and
signs his ilame to above questions.)
—3-
GENERAL DIRECTIONS.
Any number of candidates may receive the second part of the degree
together.
All officers and members on entering or retiring from a Lodge must
give the proper sign.
Social sessions may be held as often as the Lodge may determine.
Public displays can only be held by permission of the Grand Exalted
Ruler or the District Deputy.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR TILER.
After the Inner Guard has, under the Exalted Ruler's direction, invited
such brothers to come within the Lodge, the Tiler will carefully and se¬
curely close the door. He will then detain all late arrivals until such a time
as the Inner Guard communicates with him by the proper raps, when he
shall inform the Inner Guard that certain brothers are in waiting and desire
to enter. Whenever there is but one brother in waiting, for whom he can
vouch, he will announce him by name. If there be several in waiting for
all of whom he can vouch, he may to save time, announce them as "four,
five (or more as may be) brothers of this Lodge." If he cannot vouch for
any particular brother or brothers, or if brothers are visitors, he shall
notify the Inner Guarde that "Brothers of Lodge are without."
If he is at all doubtful as to a brother's standing, he should announce
him, by name, to the inner Guard, and await orders from within.
When the Inner Guard has notified the Tiler that the Lodge is closed,
he should guard the door until he is relieved, by the door being opened.
He must not give any alarm or raps during opening or closing of the
Lodge, during initiation, a ballot, or reading of minutes.
Finally, it is the Tiler's duty to take charge of all property of the Lodge
placed in his care, and to have all necessary paraphernalia in readiness for
use and in proper condition,
ISp-Too much care can not be exercised in the selection of a Tiler, as
much of the prosperity of a Lodge will depend on that officer.
A courteous, gentlemanly Tiler will impress his visitors and add much
to the standing of the Lodge.
-4-
GENERAL DIRECTIONS.
5
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INNER GUARD.
When the Exalted Ruler sounds the gavel preparatory to opening the
Lodge, the Inner Guard immediately takes his position, properly apparelled
guarding the inner door of the Lodge, and remains standing.
Whenever the Inner Guard is ordered to communicate with the Tiler,
or has necessity at any time to do so, he should secure his (the Tiler's)
attention.
He should be careful not to admit any brother, until he has secured the
necessary permission of the Exalted Ruler or other properly authorized
officer.
During initiation, conferring degrees, reading of minutes, balloting for
candidates, or opening or closing, he must not open the door unless per¬
mitted by the Exalted Ruler, in which case he should caution the brothers
to enter or leave noiselessly, so as not to interrupt the business upon which
the Lodge may be engaged.
Immediately after the ceremony of opening, and before the reading of
the minutes, the Inner Guard will be careful to announce such brothers ap
may be in waiting, so as not to detain late arrivals longer than is absolutely
necessary. It is also the Inner Guard's duty to see the brothers properly
apparelled before entering, and to see, after closing, that the regalia, etc.,
shall be placed under the charge of the Tiler, so that, if there be a social
session, nothing shall remain in the lodge room that strangers might
observe.
HONORS TO GRAND LODGE OFFICERS.
When a Grand Lodge officer officially visits a Subordinate Lodge, he
shall be received as befits an officer of his station. After the officer is
announced, by Esquire, the Exalted Ruler will call up the Lodge, and the
Grand officer shall be received by the salutation of striking the hands to¬
gether three times in succession of four blows each:
• ••• •••• ••••
After which the Lodge will sing "Auld Lang Syne." The Exalted Ruler
will then address the officer and invite him to a seat.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS.
When a visiting brother is announced to the Lodge, it shall by the duty
of the Esquire under directions from the Exalted Ruler, to secure from the
Inner Guard the card of the brother, and he shall then consult the Secretary
and see whether his name is on the Blank Book. All visiting brothers must
register their names on a book kept for that purpose by the Tiler, vrho will
compare the signatures with the brothers'cards. If correct, the card will
pass through to Secretary.
The Esquire, under the direction of the Exalted Ruler, will introduce
all visiting brothers.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR ESQUIRE.
The Esquire's station in the Lodge is in front and at the right hand of
the Exalted Ruler. He will prepare the ballot.
After Esquire has prepared the ballot he will exhibit it to the Esteemed
Leading Knight and the Exalted Ruler, to see that it is fair; he shall then
pass it to the several stations in the lodge room, and then place it upon the
altar. He shall then take his position not less than six feet therefrom, in
the direction of the Loyal Knight, and the brothers shall proceed to vote.
Every member must vote at proper intervals—one brother only passing the
"Esquire at a time.
When all the brothers have voted, he shall report to the Exalted Ruler,
who shall declare the ballot closed.
He shall then present the box to the Esteemed Leading Knight, who
shall announce to the Exalted Ruler whether the candidate has bean elected
or rejected. He shall then present the box to the Exalted Ruler, who shall
declare the result to the Lodge.
The right is reserved for any member, without question or debate, to
inspect the ballot box. Should this be desired by any member, the Exalted
Ruler shall direct the Esquire to replace the ballot box upon the altar, and
shall announce that any brother who so desires can inspect the box.
The Esquire answers the roll call of officers, assists the four principal
officers in the business of the Lodge in such a manner that none of them
need leave their stations, attend to the preparation and introduction of
candidates, and all floor work of the Lodge, and on all public occasions he
shall act as marshall The Esquire, when directed by the Exalted Ruler to
organize the Lodge, will see that all the doors are closed, the officers at their
stations, and all the brethren properly apparelled.
-6-
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS.
7
ORDER OF BUSINESS.
I.
Opening.
2.
Calling roll of officers.
3-
Reading minutes of previous session.
4-
Sickness and distress (always in order.)
5-
Report of Committee on Application.
6.
Balloting for candidates.
7-
Initiation.
.8.
Propositions for membership.
9-
Treasurer's report.
IO.
Reports of committees by seniority.
II.
Reading communications.
12.
Bills against the Lodge.
13-
Unfinished business.
14.
New business.
15.
Good of the Order,
16.
Election of chairman for social session.
17.
Receipts of session.
18.
Closing.
—8—
OPENING.
SECULAR SESSION.
(The Exalted Ruler takes his seat properly apparelled, and by one,rap
of the gavel calls the Lodge to order.)
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, you will organize
the Lodge,'
Esquire --The Lodge has been duly organized.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Inner Guard.
Inner Guard - Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—Invite all Elks to come within, and
guard the door,
Inner Guard—Exalted Ruler, your orders have been
obeyed.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Inner Guard, what is neces¬
sary before a Lodge of Elks can be regularly assembled ?
Inner Guard—All present must be vouched for as
Elks in good standing.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Secretary.
Secretary—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—Are you satisfied that all present are
brothers in good standing ?
Secretary—I am with tfye exception of the visiting
brothers (if any).
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What say you ?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—That we prove it.
Exalted Ruler—As a proof the Esteemed Loyal and
and the Esteemed Lecturing Knights will obtain the
-9—
IO
OPENING.
word and grip from those present, and convey the same
to me.
(.Theseofficers shall examine those on their respeofivs .sides, commenc¬
ing on the right and left of the Exalted Ruler, and shall meet. at. the altar,
facing Exalted Ruler. Both shall then face inward, and Lecturing Knignt
give word and grip to the Loyal Knight. The latter shall convey same to
Exalted Ruler, and return to Lecturing Knight, when both face toward
their chairs and return,)
Exalted Ruler—Brothers, the word and grip are cor¬
rect. I am satisfied, and will proceed to open the Lodge.
• •
(Officers only will rise.)
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What is the object of our organization?
Esteemed Leading Knight—To practice Charity to¬
wards all mankind, and our brothers in particular, and
to promote friendship and social intercourse among our
worthy members.
Exalted Ruler—What is your duty ?
Fsteemed Leading Knight— To assist the Exalted
Ruler in maintaining order, to require brothers to be re¬
spectful and decorous during Lodge hours, to enforce in
your absence a due observance of the laws, to assist you
in the performance of your duties, and to stand ready to
hear the cry of affliction, and aid those in distress.
Exalted Ruler—What is the motto of your station ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—Charity,
Exalted Ruler—Brother Eteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What is your duty?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—To assist in the conduct of
the business of the Lodge, and to prosecute charges when
justly made.
OPENING.
Exalted Ruler—How should our deliberations be con¬
ducted ?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Justice should prevail in all
our transactions.
Exalted Ruler—What is the motto of your station ?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Justice.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What is your duty?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—To assist in the work
of initiations, to explain the purposes and principles of
our Order, and to impress upon the minds of all the
brothers the necessity of "doing unto others as we would
have others do unto us."
Exalted Ruler—How should our intercourse as Elks
be governed ?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—We would learn to bear
and forbear.
Exalted Ruler—What is the motto of your station ?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Brotherly love.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire.
Esquire—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What is your duty?
Esquire—To assist the Exalted Ruler, to conduct the
initiations, to open and close the Lodge in due form, to
see that the signs are given correctly, examine and intro¬
duce visiting brothers, make all due preparations for work,
and guard the darkened traveler 011 his way.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Innsr Guard.
Inner Guard—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What is your duty?
Inner Guard—To guard well the inner door of the
12
OPENING.
Lodge, and permit no one to enter except such as are
duly qualified.
Exalted Ruler--Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
' Exalted Ruler—What is the duty of the Exalted
Ruler.
Esteemed Leading Knight—To preside over the de¬
liberations of the Lodge, and see that all members treat
each other with Charity, Justice and Brotherly Love.
Exalted Ruler—What is the motto of this station ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—Fidelity.
• • • •
PRAYER.
"Thou, O Lord, art just and powerful: O defend our cause against the
enemy.
O God, thou art a strong tower of defence to all who fly unto thee: O
save us from the violence of the enemy.
O Lord of hosts, fight for us, that we may glorify thee.
O suffer us not to sink under the weight of our sins, or the violence of
the enemy.
O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us for thy Name's sake,
Exalted Ruler—Fidelity, my brothers embraces all
the others, for while we remain faithful to our obliga¬
tions we will act towards each other with Charity, Justice
and Brotherly Love. The duty devolves upon the Exal¬
ted Ruler to judge impartially on all questions arising
in the Lodge and that our business may be conducted
with proper decorum, I ask the cordial assistence of all
the brothers. With this explanation, I now declare.....!..
.Lodge, No regularly opened. Brothers
will unite in singing the opening ode.
(Previous to opening the Exquire will see that the brothers are provided
with ode books.)
OPENING.
13
OPENING ODE.
AIR—ATTIiD LANG SYNE,
Great Ruler of the ufiiverse
All seeing and benign,
Look down upon and bless our work
And be all Slory thine:
And let this be our sign, o Elks,
And let this be our sign.
The Golden Rule our motto true.
For days of " Auld Lang Syne."
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, arrange the altar.
Exalted Ruler—Brothers will please give the sign.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Inner Guard, inform the Tiler
that the Lodge is regularly opened.
ORDER OF BUSINES 8—Continued.
2. Calling roll of officers.
3. Reading minutes of previous session.
4. Sickness and distress (always in order).
5. Report of Committee on Applications.
6., Balloting for candidates.
7. Initiation.
PROPERTIES.
All the articles necessary for initiation should be nicely arranged by the
Tiler, so that the Esquire may have no trouble in making his preparations
' rapidly and neatly.
The articles should be:
A vial containing
A spirit lamp.
Some tufts of coarse curled hair. Towels.
Straps or ropes to bind candidates.
Some salt water.
A small can (similar to those used for injecting oil into parts of machin¬
ery) to be used to simulate the flow of blood.
Several' from which the shall have been expelled by punctur¬
ing slight holes in both ends and blowing the substance out, leaving the
shells intact.
An artificial 1
An awl.
Some familiar articles which can be easily recognized by the touch of
the candidate. The following are suggested: A pen knife, keys, coins, etc.
It is positively prohibited to use anything suggestive of indecency or im¬
morality during any stage of the initiation, nor should any remarks be made
when the^isagreeable fluid is used, that could offend the most sensitive.
Any ordinary door closed in a frame-work, so that it will stand firmly,
with large bolt, chain and knocker attached.
A baton for Esquire with Elk head.
Black robe for Esquire; two white robes for assistants.
Hand torches for death scene.
An illuminated Elk's head may be used.
A gong or chimes (optional).
Hoodwinks, A bier and pall.
Set curtains for death scene.
The dramatic part of the work should bo acted slowly, with proper
pauses, so that the candidates may be duly impressed with each incident.
Any number of candidates may receive closing part together,
Officers may wear full dress during initiation.
The Grand Lodge has especially charged that candidates must not be
roughly treated, nor anything used that might inflict bodily injury, and un¬
der no circumstances must anything suggestive of vulgarity be permitted.
-14-
INITIATION INSTRUCTIONS.
When the Lxalted Ruler directs the Esquire to prepare the necessary
paraphernalia, and when ready to report, the Esquire will select his assist¬
ants, giving them all necessary instructtions. When everything is in ready-
ness, he should make the announcement:
"Exalted Ruler, all is prepared for the work of initiation."
If the Exacted Ruler is ready,' the Espuire, in company with his assist¬
ants, all properly apparelled, will retire after saluting, and receive from
the Tiler the candidates furnished by the Secretary. When ordered to eiiter
the Espuire and his assistants will do so—as per Ritnal. When directed to
"seize and bind the candidate," he will do so in a quiet manner, and with no
unnecessary violence or rudeness- He will -also supervise the City Barber
or City Surgeon, answering such questions as the Exalted Ruler may ask.
When requested to test the perceptive qualities, he will hand fhe candidate
two or three familiar objects, such as pen-knife, keys, coins, etc., and then
the
When ordered to "convince" the candidate, he will break the.-
as usual, and the shall be used. When ordered to "conduct" the
candidate, temporarily, to the ante-room, he will do so and place him in
charge of the City Surgeon, or City Barber, or when there is more than one
candidate, in charge of some brother who will permit no one to molest the
candidate while awaiting the order to be reconducted before the Lodge.
After the candidate has been tested, etc., he will, by order of the Exalted
Ruler, assisted by a necessary quota of the brothers, reconduct the candi¬
date within the lodge room, and march him slowly in front of the altar.
During the obligation he will see that all candidates repeat the words
distinctly and accurately, when ordered by the Exalted Ruler, and when all
are unbound, will answer thus:
"Exalted Ruler, your orders have been obeyed."
When the obligated brothers are asked the question as to what "they
most desire," the Esquire and assistants will whisper distinctly the PROPER
WORD in the ears of the brothers, so that they can reply correctly. The
Esquire when ordered to remove the blindfolds, should see that it is done
promptly and simultaneously at the sound of the gavel. He will obey the
orders of the Exalted Ruler in conducting the brothers to the various sta¬
tions. At the Esteemed Loyal Knight's station he will assist, if requested
by that officer, in conferring the grip, word, signs, etc. When directed to
place the brothers in position for the final charge, he will arrange them be¬
fore the altar and remain standing with them until they are ordered to
seats in the Lodge.
When the Esquire and his assistants apply at the outer door of the
Lodge, the Inner Guard will, after being warned by the proper raps from
the Esquire, address the Esquire through the wicket.
-15-
INITIATION.
(The Exalted Ruler will order the Esquire to prepare the necessary
paraphernalia, and when ready to report, Secretary will also retire, ascer¬
tain the name of the candidate, and if he signs the book of questions, report
immediately back to the Lodge. If the Esquire has reported readiness, the
Exalted Ruler will order the Esquire and assistants to retire and prepare
the candidate.)
(While the candidate is being prepared the Exalted Ruler calls up Lodge)
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire.
Esquire—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—You will prepare the necessary para¬
phernalia, and when ready report.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Secretary.
Secretary—Exalted. Ruler.
Exalted Ruler---You will retire to the ante-room, as¬
certain the names of the candidates and report.
Secretary (returning)---Exalted Ruler, I find in
waiting who has complied with the requirements of
our laws and desires to be initiated1 into our Order.
Esquire—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire.
Esquire—Everything is prepared for initiation.
Exalted Ruler—You will select such assistance as you
may require and retire to the ante-room, where you will
find in waiting , whom you will properly
prepare for initiation and conduct to the outer door of the
Lodge.
• • • •
Exalted Ruler—My brothers, we are about to perform
the solemn ceremonies of initiation. Brother Esteemed
Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
-16-
INITIATION.
17
Exalted Ruler-—What should be the duty of the
Exalted Ruler during initiation?
Esteemed Leading Knight---To show by his fidelity
to the work and Ritual, his devotion to the noble objects
of our Order and to preserve order.
Exalted Ruler—My brothers, as the impressions pro¬
duced on the mind of a candidate are liable to be lasting,
I earnestly request that you preserve the utmost deco¬
rum during the progress of the initiation. You will
avoid all loud conversation or other behavior likely to in¬
terrupt the officers in charge, or produce a bad impres¬
sion upon the candidate. With this reminder of the im¬
portant and impressive work we are about to undertake,
I now declare this Lodge ready for initiation Brother
Inner Guard, inform the Tiler that the Lodge is ready
for work.
•
(When candidates have been prepared, the Esquire will approach the
inner door and give the alarm.)
Inner Guard {loud, voice)--Who comes there?
Esquire--The Esquire with a stranger who desires to
be initiated into the mysteries of the Improved Benevo¬
lent and Protective Order of Elks.
(Candidate blindfolded^and bound, arms pinioned loosely.)
Inner Guard—Exalted Ruler, the Esquire seeks ad"
mission with a candidate who desires to be initiated
into the mysteries of the Improved Benevolent and Pro¬
tective Order of Elks.
Exalted Ruler—-His name?
Inner Guard -
Exalted Ruler—Who vouches for him ?
INITIATION.
Inner Guard—The Esquire.
Exalted Ruler—Is the candidate prepared?
Inner Guard—-He is.
Exalted Ruler—Being prepared, admit him,
• • • •
(The door being opened, the candidate will advance a few paces in t-ln ■
lodge room. Candidate remains standing.
Exalted Ruler—-Whom have we here ?
Esquire—A candidate blindfolded who desires to be
initiated into the mysteries of the Improved Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks.
Exalted Ruler—-Mr , do you of your own free
will present yourself as a candidate for initiation in this
Order ?
Candidate—-I do.
Exalted Ruler-—Do yon believe in the existence of a
Supreme Being?
Candidate-—I do.
Exalted Ruler-—Brother Esquire, are you satisfied
that the candidate is qualified to become an Elk ?
Esquire—-I am.
Exalted Ruler—Then lead on the stranger.
•
(Slow music. As candidate passeB, Exalted Ruler stops him with 011 e-
(•) blow of gavel, Same Esteemed Lecturing. Knight. Same Esteemed
Leading Knight, and Loyal Knight,)
(Slow music during these dialogues.)
Exalted Ruler— (#) "Brother, clasp the hand of
brother, stepping fearless through the night/' Be ever
ready with sympathy and with succor, the heart ever
open, and the hand ever extended.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight— (#) He that walketh
INITIATION,
19
uprightly and speaketh the truth of his heart, shall abide
with his brethren in brotherly love.
Esteemed Leading Knight— (#) Though I speak
with the tongues of men and angels, and have not char¬
ity, I am become as sounding brass and the tinkling
cymbal.
Esteemed Loyal Knight— (#) A good man showeth
favor and lendeth; he will guide his affairs with discre¬
tion ; he hath disbursed ; he hath given to his brother.
He is just to himself ; he is just to his neighbor; he is just
to all men. He abideth in justice, and shall be exalted
among men.
(The Esquire and Guide conduct candidate around while Lodge sings
Ode of Welcome, ending in front of altar.
Exalted Ruler--- , you have been duly proposed
and accepted by the members of this Lodge to become
united with us in the humane work for which this Order
was founded. The Improved Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks is an organization devoted to the.practice
of charity, its fundamental principles being Charity,
Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity. It is a secret or¬
ganization; not, however, in the sense in which fraternal
societies are usually accepted ; our one great secret being
to dispense charity without ostentation and to keep sacred
within our breasts the names of our brothers, who being
overtaken by adversity and misfortune may receive aid or
srelief at our hands.
Signs and passwords are used as a means of recogni¬
tion to guard against imposition. Social features are
connected with our prganization in order to bring our
brothers into closer communion and to cement more firmly
the ties of friendship and fraternal love.
20
INITIATION.
Before you can proceed further in this degree of our
Order it will be necessary to exact from you a solemn
and binding pledge, never -to reveal any of the secrets
that come to your knowledge in connection with our
Order; and I assure you that you will not be asked to do,
or to obligate yourself to do, anything that will con¬
flict with your duty to yourself or j'our family, or
your religious or political opinions. If you cannot con-
scienciously take upon yourself such an obligation you
will at once retire. With this assurance are you willing
to assume the obligation ?
Gandidate--I am.
Exalted Ruler—Then take your position at the altar,
kneeling upon both knees, with your hands resting upon
the Bible.
(When in position Exalted Ruler will continue:)
Let no one enter upon so important a duty without
first invoking the blessing of the Grand Exalted Ruler
of all.
Chaplain—Oh, Thou Most Exalted of all Rulers, we
have gathered as the sons of men and Thy children to
renew our obligations of brotherhood, and to learn lessons
of charity, justice and forbearance toward all mankind ;
thus to lighten each other's burdens. Prosper us in this
labor of love. Bless this candidate now kneeling before
Thee, and encourage him in all his efforts. Grant that
he may devote lis live to Thy service, and become a true
and faithful brother among us, so that he may be better
enabled to display the beauties of Charity, Justice,
Brotherly Love and Fidelity. Teach us to know our¬
selves, In all our endeavors for good, lead us and all
INITIATION.
21
Elks into the green pastures of knowledge, and beside
the still waters of peace. Amen.
All Elks—Amen.
Exalted Ruler—If the candidate at the altar is still
desirous of taking the necessary obligation, he will say
"I," pronounce his name in full and repeat after me.
(The brothers will assemble in front of the altar in a semi-circle, the
Exalted Ruler in the center.)
OBLIGATION.
"I, , in the presence of the Supreme
Being and this Lodge of Elks, do by my manhood sol¬
emnly promise and swear never to reveal any of the
secrets that have been, or are about to be committed to
my charge and keeping.
I also promise and swear to obey the constitution,
statutes, rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge of the
Order, and the By-Laws of Lodge. No , or
any other Lodge of this Order with which I may here¬
after be connected, when in my power so to do. x
I also promise and swear to do all in my power to pro¬
mote and advance the interests of the Order and those of
its members, and to propose no person for initiation in
this Order whom I do not sincerely believe worthy of
membership, and to ballot against the admission of an
unworthy person when proposed by another.
X also promise and swear to give such testiomony as
may be within my knowledge, upon any matter connected
with the Order, when called upon to do so by any proper
authority in the Order; and that I will never appeal to
the courts to right a supposed or imaginary wrong with¬
out first appealing to the counsels of the Order.
22
INITIATION.
I also promise that I will never reveal to any one not
an Elk, the name of a brother receiving aid or relief from
the Order, and that I will prefer charges against any one
doing the same.
I also promise and swear that I will never cheat, rob
or defraud a member of this Order of anything of value,
no matter how great or small, nor will I be a party to its
being done by others, whether in or out of the Order.
(All is still—Lights down.)
I also promise and swear never to violate the chastitj*
of the wife, mother, sister or daughter of an Klk, nor if
I can possibly prevent it, will I permit others to do so,
and if I break this Elks' oath, may I wander through the
worlk forsaken, may I be pointed out as a person bereft
of decency and manhood, too loathsome to hold communi¬
cation with true and upright men, and may a Supreme
Power help me and keep me steadfast in this my solemn
and binding obligation in the Improved Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks of the Worlk. Amen.
All—Amen.
Exalted Ruler—-As a token of sincerety the candidate
will kiss the Bible upon which his hands rest.
I Exalted Ruler retires to his place; room still in darkness: candidate
still kneeling.)
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, remove the cords
that bind him, for he is now a brother under moral bonds
stronger tha: any material ones we could place upon hiijfcv
My brother, in your present situation what do you most
desire ?
Esquire (whispers)—Sight.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, place your hands
initiation.
23
over the eyes of the brother and at the sound of the gavel
remove the blindfold.
(At the sound of the gavel the Esquire and Guides will remove the
blindfold. Gavel sound.)
• • •
(Boom in total darkness—subdued silence for a moment.)
Exalted Ruler—My brother, on being restored to
sight: I first desire to congratulate you upon your admis¬
sion thus far into our Order, and call your attention to
the position—
(Lights up—members standing about in a circle.)
of the right hand of each brother here.
This is to teach you that while you remain faithful to
the obligation you have just taken, these hands, and the
hands of every Elk on the face of the earth will be
stretched forth to your relief if in need, but on the con¬
trary, should you prove unfaithful, these hands will be
clenched to drive you from our midst and punish yotl for
your infidelity. Beware !
(Take step forward when hands are clenched, raised as if to strike.)
(If there is more than one candidate, the Esquire will conduct all but
one to the ante-room.)
(Replace the blindfold.)
Exalted Ruler -My brother, you may think it strange
Ithat we thus again blindfold you. Its meaning you will
in due time more fully understand.
•
Exalted Ruler—Before you can proceed further, it will
be necessary for you to give us an evidence that you are
possessed of sufficient fortitude to resist any attempt to
extort from you any of the secrets of this Order which
you have just sworn at our altar to keep inviolate. Un-
24
INITIATION.
less you are willing to undergo such a test, you will at
once retire and give up all hope of ever becoming an Elk.
Are you willing to undergo the test ?
Candidate—I am.
(Special paraphernalia may be used here by permission of the Grand
Exalted Ruler.)
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, seize and bind him,
conduct hin to a seat.
Exalted Ruler—City Barber.
City Barber—Aye, aye, sir.
Exalted Ruler—Test the candidate's firmness.
City Barber—Aye, aye, sir.
Exalted Ruler—What do you find ?
(C. B. examines and )
City Barber—His face needs cleansing, and he has a
little to much hair for the horns to set properly.
Exalted Ruler—What could you advise ?
City Barber—I think the candidate should be
Exalted Ruler—What is the will of the Lodge ?
Lodge— (All shout).
(City Barber proceeds to )
Exalted Ruler—Has the candidate suffered without
flinching ?
City Barber—He has.
Exalted Ruler What should you further advise?
City Barber—The removal of all superfluous ......
Exalted Ruler - What is the will of the Lodge?
Lodge—
Exalted Ruler—Has the candidate suffered without
shrinking?
INITIATION.
25
City Barber—He has.
Exalted Ruler—'Tis well. City Surgeon.
City Surgeon—Aye, aye, sir.
Exalted Ruler—Examine the candidate's pulse.
(City Surgeon does so.)
Exalted Ruler—What do you pronounce him?
City Surgeon—A man of very full habit.
Exalted Ruler—What would you advise ?
City Surgeon—Relieving him of a few ounces of
Exalted Ruler—What is the will of the Lodge ?
L,odge—
(All say .together,)
Exalted Ruler-—Has the candidate suffered without
flinching?
City Surgeon—He has.
Exalted Ruler—Raise the candidate to his feet. If
he be weak, let him partake of some refreshment.
[Refreshment given him.]
Exalted Ruler (sharply)—Drink. Be not afraid. If
you do not like it, reject it.
[The candidate is left standing, while the Exalted Ruler addresses him
as follows:]
^ Exalted Ruler—Mr I congratulate you
on the evidence you have given us on the possession of
great fortitude, and three of the human senses, namely:
Seeing, hearing and tasting. We must now be satisfied
that you possess as well the faculties of feeling and smel¬
ling. Reseat the candidate and test his perceptive
qualities.
26
INITIATION.
[Here follows unwritten work. Pass over the objects quickly, scalTf'£
giving candidate time to guess what they are. After this has been aon
the Exalted Ruler will proceed thus] :
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, remove the candi¬
date to the ante-room, there to remain until again sum¬
moned before the Eodge.
[Two of the assistants retire with the candidate to the ante-room, report¬
ing back as quickly as possible, while the Brother Esquire and assistants re¬
tire and introduce the next candidate. After the candidates have passed
the test singly, the remaining parts of the degree will be conferred uPon
them all together, the cords having been removed in the ante-room. The
Esquire and his assistants will again present all the candidates at the door
of the Lodge and give raps of admission as before, candidates blindfolded.
The Inner Guard will open the wicket and ascertain the cause of the alarm.
Two guides must accompany each candidate.
Inner Guard—Who comes there ?
Esquire—Brother , who wishes to receive
further light in the mysteries of our Order.
Inner Guard—Has he made suitable proficiency in the
preceding work ?
Esquire—He has.
Exalted Ruler—Is he prepared ?
Inner Guard—He is.
Exalted Ruler---Then you will admit him (or them).
(As candidate enters, Exalted Ruler calls up Lodge with four blows
(• • • •) of gavel. Lodge will sing ode (or quartette may be substi-
tuted). "When singing is concluded, a guide will halt the candidate by
gently slapping him on the right shoulder with his right hand.)
•
Guide (in a muffled voice)---Whom have we here ?
Esquire—A brother who is ready to receive the mys¬
teries of our Order.
Guide—Ah! but how do yon know him to be a
brother ?
Esquire—How do I know him to be a brother? L,et
me pass.
INITIATION.
27
Guide—First answer my question.
Esquire—Because he has taken the same obligation
all Elks have taken that have passed this way before.
Guide—Then you may pass.
(When Esquire arrives opposite Exalted Ruler, the second guide stops
candidate.)
Guide—Whom .have we here ?
Esquire—A brother who is ready to receive the mys¬
teries of our Order.
Guide—How do you know him to be a brother ?
Esquire—Because he has taken the same obligation
all Elks have taken that have passed this way before.
Guide—Then he may pass.
(Candidate passes around room to Exalted Ruler.)
Exalted Ruler—Whom have we here?
Esquire—A brother who is ready to receive the mys¬
teries of our Order.
Exalted Ruler—How do we know him to be a brother?
Esquire—Because he has taken the obligation.
Exalted Ruler—My brother, before proceeding further
it will be necessary for you to embark upon a pilgrimage
in search of light and knowledge concerning the objects
and purposes of the Order. You will be accompanied by
efficient guides, who will conduct you safely on the jour¬
ney. Brother Esquire, you will call upon the guides of
the Order to report for duty forthwith.
Esquire - Guides will please report.
(Hurrying of feet.)
Esquire—Exalted Ruler, your order has been obeyed,
the guides await instructions.
2S
INITIATION.
Exalted Ruler—Guides, you will now conduct this
traveler on his journey. I need not caution you as to
your conduct. You nay proceed.
(Slow music. The guides take candidate by arm (all silence), lead him
twice around the room and stop before a door set in a moveable irame, sup
plied with bolts, chains, etc. Raps are given by guide, resPoniie(1a~i?,„J
Loyal Knight, After candidate has given pass-word door is opened, sound
of bolts, chains, etc.)
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Who knocks without?
First Guide—A traveler in search of light and know¬
ledge.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—If he would enter here, let
the traveler give the pass-word.
Traveler—"Justice."
Esteemed Loyal Knight—These gates are ever open
to those who come in the name of Justice. You may
enter. At the threshold of life's journey Justice stands
like a sentinel, and with unerring judgment and equal
favor, challenges all who pass. "For Justice, all places
a temple, all seasons summer," yet often is her fair tem¬
ple desecrated, arid her summer's sunshine clouded by
those who use her pure robe to hide the hideous face of
base hypocrisy and cunning craft. Some may for a time
escape her stern demands, but like a phantom she follows
in the track of all—nor pauses at the sepulchre, but takes
her place upon the judgement seat beyond and gives to
each his final and jusl reward. You may now continue
your journey.
(Guides again lead candidate around the room and again pause at door
now placed at station of Leading Knight. Raps, etc., as before.)
Esteemed Leading Knight (through door)—Who seeks
admission?
INITIATION.
29
First Guide—A traveler who would pass.
Esteemed Leading Knight—If the traveler would pass
this way, let him give the pass-word.
Traveler—"Charity."
Esteemed Leading Knight—The pass-word is correct;
unbolt the gates and permit the traveler to enter.
(Battle of bolts and chains.)
Traveler, may Charity, in precept and example, find
in you a worthy exponent. Life's pilgrimage, upon
which we all are embarked, leads ever onward, and no
returning travelers meet us on the way. From child¬
hood's dawn until the way is lost in gloom of manhood's
night, we struggle with chains, the cares and burdens of
our lives. Many there are who fall beneath the .weight,
and others toiling bravely on cannot escape the rough
and rugged rocks that lie along the way. The strong
oppress the weak, and in the mad and reckless chase for
place and power—with lust of pelf and greed for gain
and gold, trample them down, regardless of their cries.
The ear of Charity should be ever on the alert to catch
the sigh of distress, and hear the moan of pain. It
should softly temper all relations of mankind, for Charity
is akin to that mercy which we trust will be shown when
life's pilgrimage is ended, we* pause for a moment at the
edge of its horizon while the dusk is slowly deepening
into night. Traveler, you may now continue your
journey.
(Candidate is again led around the room, this time to door of Lecturing
Knight. Baps as before.)
Esteemed Lecturing Knight-—Who seeks admission
here ?
INITIATION.
Guide --A traveler, who, much fatigued from his long
journey, would enter for a moment's rest.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—To the weary traveler
on life's tiresome journey these gates are ever open to
those who have learned the pass-word. If the traveler is
worthy of admission, let him give the pass-word.
Traveler—'' Brotherly Love.''
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Unbolt the gates and
let the traveler enter. Guides, let such hospitality be
shown our weary friend as may do full honor to that
noble virtue ''Brotherly Love." With brotherly love
administer to his wants, and while he tarries may he find
that needed strength which will the better fit.him for his
journey. Our motto is, to "do unto others as we would
have others do unto us."
(Gets refreshment, drink of water, etc. Then place in chair, facing
across room. A section of lodge room is here masked in with black cloth;
ceilings, walls and and floors are covered with black so that it presents ap¬
pearance of small room entirely black, with candidate sitting in one end.
At opposite end is placed a bier with form lying upon it, and standing about
at end and rear, the forms of mourners cloaked and hooded, wearing gray
or other beards. Lights in lodge room are extinguished and tapers placed
at head and foot of bier. A spray of phosphorus thrown on background
will give a wierd effect. Bell tolling slowly in ante-room, and while organ
is softly playing "Thanetopsis" is read from a position concealed behind
candidate. Blindfold is removed.)
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Traveler, across the
way observe for yourself the last sad service which can
be performed by Brotherly Love.
THANETOPSIS. '
When thoughts
Of the last bitter hour come like a blight
Over thy spirit, and sad images
Of the stern agony, and shrout, and pall,
And breathless darkness, and the narrow house
INITIATION.
Make thee to shudder, and grow sick at heart ;
Go forth under the open sky, and list
To nature's teachings, while from all around—
Earth and her waters—and the depths of air—
Comes a still voice—yet a few days, and thee
The all-behotding sun shall see no more
In all its course; nor yet in the cold ground,
Where thy pale form was laid with many tears,
Nor in the embrace of ocean, shall exist
Thy image. Earth, that nourished thee, shall claim
Thy growth, to be resolved to earth again,
And, lost each human trace, surrendering up
Thine individual being, shalt thou go
To mix forever wiih the elements,
To be a brother to the insensible rock
And to the sluggish clod, which the rude swain
Turns with his share, and treads upon. The oak
Shall send its roots abroad, and pierce thy mold.
Yet not to thine eternal resting place
Shalt thou retire alone, nor couldst thou wish
Couch more magnificent. Thou shalt lie down
With patriarchs of the infant world—with kings,
The powerful of the earth—the wise, the good
pair forms, and hoary seers of ages past,
All in one mighty sepulchre. The hills
Rock ribbed and ancient as the sun,—the vales
Stretching in pensive quietness between;
The venerable woods—rivers that move
In majesty, and the complaining brooks
That make the meadow green; and. poured around all,
Old ocean's gray and melancholy waste,—
Are but the solemn decorations all
Of the great tomb of man. The golden sun,
The planets, all the infinite host of heaven
Are shining on the sad abode of death
Through the still lapse of ages. All that tread
The globe are but a handful of the tribes
That slumber in its bosom. The dead reign there alone.
So shalt thou rest,—and all that breathe
32
Will share thy destiny. The gay will laugh
When thou art gone, the solemn brood of care
Plod on, and each one as before will chase
His favorite phantom ; yet all of these shall leave
Their mirth and their employments, and shall come
And make their bed with thee. As long as trains
Of ages glide away, the sons of men—
The youth in life's green spring, and he who goes
In the full strength of years, matron and maid,
The speechless babe, and the gray-headed man—
Shall one by one be gathered by thy side,
By those who in their turn shall follow them.
So live, that when thy summons comes to join
The innumerable caravan, which moves
To the mysterious realm where each shall take
His chamber in the silent halls of death,
Thou go not like the quarry slave at night,
Scourged to his dungeon, but sustained and soothed
By an unfaltering trust, approach thy grave,
Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch
About him and lies.down to pleasant dreams,
While willing hands and loving hearts draw near
To do the last sad service for the dead.
*********
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—If the traveler is suffi¬
ciently' rested he will now continue his journey.
IReplace hoodwink. Candidate again led around room to door of Exal¬
ted Ruler. Raps, etc,]
Exalted Ruler— If the traveler would enter here, let
him first give the pass-word.
Traveler—"Fidelity."
Exalted Ruler—The pass-word is correct; the traveler
may enter. Fidelity, my friend, is the great central pil¬
lar in life's temple, upon which Justice, Charity and
Brotherly Love may rest secure.
INITIATION.
33
Justice Impartial—Charity unlimited—Brotherly Love
unrestrained, and Fidelity unwavering^—these are the
grand principles upon which is erected the Improved
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World,
and may the spirit of these virtues personified draw about
you their enchanted circle.
As the time runs on in sun and shade, may you bear
with you ever in life's changing course the sense of obli¬
gation and of wrong—in your heart the rapture of a
high resolve. Life's story has been often told, yet each
must solve anew its problems for himself.
Dark is the mystery of our birth, and darker still the
gloom that fills the vale of death.
Our time upon the stage of action is but brief, and in
the tragedy we must each play a part. The character is
left for us to choose. A villain, if we will—or, man of
honor, holding high above all other things, high as hope's
great throbbing star above the darkness of the dead—re¬
spect of virtue, and the love of home, and wife, and
friend. Midst swift shifting scenes that mark the action
of the play, we by each other may oft be aided in our
part, or from each other catch the inspiration of a high
resolve, and to this end was born the brotherhood of
Elks.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, you will now con¬
duct the candidate to the ante-room, there to remain un¬
til again summoned before the Lodge.
[After the removal of the paraphernalia the candidates will be presented
at the outer door of the Lodge, without the blindfolds, the raps having been
exchanged between the Esquire and the Inner Guard, the candidates will
be admitted and conducted before the altar.]
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, you will conduct the
34
candidate to the station of the Esteemed Loyal Knight,
whom you will direct to invest the newly admitted
brother (or brothers) with the test oath, grand hailing
sign, pass-word and grip of our Order.
Esquire—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight, it is the
order of the Exalted Ruler that you invest your newly
admitted brother (or brothers) with the test oath, grand
hailing sign, pass-word and grip of our Order
[Esteemed Loyal Knight will proceed to exemplify unwritten work,]
INSTRUCTIONS.
My brothers, the pass-word of is
The raps for entrance at the door are made in this
manner
The Grand hailing sign is made in this manner
■ These signs must only be given before the altar on
entering or leaving the Lodge.
The pass-word of all Elks is , and is given in
the following manner
The raps are given in this manner
The grip of an Elk is given thus
My brother, you will now give strict attention to the
dialogue between the Esquire and myself, and his answers
would be yours, should you desire to prove yourself an
Elk to obtain admission to another lodge, and constitutes
the proper examinations. Brother Esquire.
Esquire—Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Repeat the test oath.
Esquire—I, in the presence of a Supreme Being, and
those here assembled, do solemnly swear lhat I have been
regularly initiated in the Improved Benevolent and Pro-
INITIATION.
35
tective Order of Elks of the World, and that I am now
in good standing in Lodge, No from which
I hail.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Are you an Elk?
Esquire (answers).
Esteemed Loyal Knight (reponds).
Esquire (answers).
Esteemed Loyal Knight (responds)—What makes you
an Elk ?
Esquire—The obligation which I took upon myself in
a regularly organized Lodge of Elks, having authorit}*
from the Grand Lodge.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—How can you prove yourself
an Elk ?
Esquire—By a sign, a pass-word, a grip and the recital
of the ceremonies of my initiation.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Give me a sign.
[Esquire gives the grand hailing sign.]
Esteemed Loyal Knight—To what does that sign
allude ?
Esquire---To the branching antlers of the Elk?
Esteemed Loyal Knight---Give the brother (or
brothers) the grip.
Esteemed Loyal Knight —What is that?
Esquire---The only grip of the Improved Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks of the World.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—-What does it denote?
Esquire---That While I remain faithful to my obliga¬
tion, I shall have the friendship and confidence of my
brothers, and that they will ever by ready to take me by
the hand.
36
INITIATION.
Esteemed Loyal Knight-—What is an Elk?
Esquire—A, C. A.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—-What do we obtain from
that ?
Esquire—Titles in the Improved Benevolent and Pro-
protective Order of Elks of the World.
Esteemed Loyal Knight-—Explain them.
Esquire-—C. A. is the Latin for the word Elk—-Deer;
D-E-E-R E-L-K, D-E, Deer Elk; E-R, Exalted Ruler;
E-L-K, Esteemed Leading Knight, Esteemed Loyal
Knight and Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight---What is the foundation and
ground work of our Order ?
Esquire—The' faults of our brothers we should write
upon the sand, their virtues on the tablets of love and
memory.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—What is the motto of our
Order ?
Esquire—To do unto others as we would have others
do unto us.
[The Esteemed Loyal Knight will then address r,he Esquire thus:]
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Brother Esquire, conduct
the brothers to the station of the Esteemed Leading
Knight for further information.
[The Esquire obeys the order.]
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler Why are you obliged to swear before
undergoing admission to a sister Lodge, that you are in
good standing in the Lodge from which-you hail.
initiation.
37
Esteemed Leading Knight—In order to show that I
have neither been expelled, nor stricken from the roll.
Exalted Ruler—Why were you blindfolded?
Esteemed Leading Knight—First, that I might not
even see the Lodge previous to taking upon myself the
necessary obligation. Second to make evident to me, my
darkened state, previous to becoming an enlightened
brother.
Exalted Ruler—To what do the raps of admission
allude ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—To the four principal offi¬
cers of the Lodge, but particularly to the mottos of their
respective stations, namely: Charity, Justice, Bro¬
therly Love and Fidelity.
Exalted Ruler—Why were you bound, burned and
bled?
Esteemed Leading Knight—To show that for the
benefit of the Order, I would become an uncomplaining
prisoner, and suffer torture rather than betray any of its
secrets.
Exalted Ruler—How did you prove yourself in pos¬
session of the five human senses?
Esteemed Leading Knight—First: Seeing, by finding
my way unassisted to the outer door of the Lodge; second:
Hearing, by replying to all questions asked me; third:
Taste, by rejecting the disagreeable fluid given me to
drink; fourth: By recognizing the form of the ,
which, when..:... proved my sense-of smelling,
Exalted Ruler—Why did all brothers stretch forth
their hands during the obligation ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—In order to -enew their
pledges and instruct me, their newly made brother.
38 INITIATION.
Brother Esquire, you will now conduct the brother
before the station of the Exalted Ruler for final instruc¬
tions.
Exalted Ruler—Dear brother, you have been proposed
and accepted as a member of our Order, and after com¬
pliance with our laws have been duly initiated. You
have by your actions assumed new relations to a number
of earnest, zealous, conscientious men, banded together
for a common interest and the general good. You have
agreed to become an exemplar of the manhood of our
Order in the eyes of the Word ; to give a reason for its
very existance. Why should it exist at all, if not for
good? See, then, you act well your part of Charity,
Justice and Brotherly Love to all men with Fidelity, thus
justifying the noble objects of our Order. Act, there¬
fore, in such a manner as to make the name of Elk as
borne by you, a still greater honor in the future than it
has been in the past.
Remember, my dear brother, as we conduct ourselves
in the outer world, so shall we, as Elks, be praised or
censured. I charge you therefore, that you avoid all
acts or words that may tend to bring reproach upon our
Order.
The grand hailing sign of our Order (gives it) should
only be given within the Lodge and at the altar.
The raps of admission (gives them) refer to the four
principal officers of the Lodge, and to the mottos of their
respective stations, namely, Charity, Justice, Brotherly
Love and Fidelity.
We have but one pass-word (gives it) which is uni¬
versal and never changed, denoting that the one grand
object that governs the many is to promote and enhance
INITIATION.
39
the welfare and happiness of each other and mankind in
general.
On entering or retiring from a Lodge of Elks, you will
advance directly in front of the altar and salute the Exalted
Ruler with the grand hailing sign The voting
sign is made
Brother Esquire, you will now invest the newly re¬
ceived brothers with the distinguishing badge of an Elk.
There is but one more point of instruction for you to
receive.
The gavel in the hands of the Exalted Ruler, is an
emblem of authority.
One rap * (gives it) calls up the Lodge A or seats it
when standing. ' *
Two raps 9 9 (gives them) calls up the officers.
Three raps « * # (gives them) is the signal to remove
the blindfold.
Four raps « « * * (gives them) calls up the entire
Lodge.
You will now reverse your position as you stand and
be received by the entire Lodge in proper form.
Brothers, salute the junior member of our Order.
(All give sign, including candidate, after which the Esquire will again
face the brother to the Exalted Euler.)
Exalted Ruler—And now, my brother, I extend to
you a most cordial greeting as a member of our fraternity
and welcome you as a member of Lodge, No. ,
of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks
of the World, and delare you duly entitled to all the
rights and privileges of our Order, after signing the Con¬
stitution and Laws.
(The brother then will work his way in with lisquire.)
CLOSING.
(When the business of the session is ended, the Exalted Ruler will use
the gavel and say:)
Exalted Ruler—Brothers, having passed throug our
regular order of business and complied with our laws, I
shall now proceed to close the Lodge. Brother Inner
Guard, inform the Tiler.
• • • •
Exalted Ruler—Officers and brothers, have we relieved
the afflicted and aided those in distress ?
Brothers answer—We have.
Exalted Ruler—Let no brother go forth with any
bitterness in his heart, and may we ever act with Fidelity
to our obligations, and thereby merit the approval of the
Exalted Ruler of all. Brothers will unite in singing the
closing ode.
CLOSING ODE.
air-home sweet home.
We've finished our labor, the parting has come,
And each of our brothers now goes to ftis home ;
And our voices blending, we now will depart,
In perfect love, giving each note from the heart.
Bach duty accomplished, each brother content,
Oh, thus may we ever our friendship cement;
May Charity, Justice aud Brotherly Love
At last lead us all to the Grand Lodge above.
PRAYER.
Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of his great mercy has prow
forgivenness of sins to all those who with hearty repentance and true"
faith turn unto him; Have mercy upon you; pardon and deliver you ffctwii
all your sins; confirm and strengthen you in all goodness; and bring yottto
everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
-40-
Closing.
4i
Exalted Ruler—Brothers will give the sign. Brother
Esquire, remove the emblem from the altar; (after re¬
moval): Without further ceremony. I now declare
Lodge, No closed until the next regular session.
(Giving one rap with gavel which is repeated by Esteemed Leading
Knight)
FUNERAL SERVICE.
SESSION OF SORROW.
(Adopted at the Grand Lodge session held in Cincinnati, O., Sept. 20, 1898,)
(Notes.—The Lodge should be opened in the lodge room, in regular
form. The method of arrangement should be left to the ^
should act as marshal. The regalia for funerals is the same as i?
Lodge with the addition of crepe on left arm and jewels, a spray of amarantn
and ivy worn on left breast, and a mourning badge of the Lodge, in cases
where the aprons cannot be worn, the mourning badge can be used as a
substitute—the idea being to produce the effect of uniformity and organiza-
These services will take place at the grave, or at the residence of de¬
ceased, gathered around casket. ,, , „ , * .
The Lodge will form in Lodge formation, the Exalted Ruler at tbe head,
Esteemed Leading Knight at the foot; Esteemed Loyal Knight at the left
side; Esteemed Lecturing Knight at the right side; Esquire and Chaplain,
respectively, on right and left of Exalted Ruler; Secretary and Treasurer,
respectively, with Loyal and Lecturing Knights; Inner Guard and Tiler,
repectively, on right and left of Esteemed Leading Knight. All officers
standing in front of members. The Esquire always acting as marshal.)
OPENING CEREMONIES.
Exalted Ruler---Brothers, we are here assembled to
dwell upon the uncertainty of life and all human pursuits.
The solemn duty before us is of a broader and more
charitable nature than that which actuates our usual
gatherings; for as we are taught that charity extends
beyond the grave, so are we here assembled to commem¬
orate the memory of one who has fallen in life's battles,
whom death has claimed for its own, and who'now sleeps
that sleep that knows no waking. Brother Secretary,
you will please call the name of our deceased brother.
(Secretary calls name.)
In vain we call upon him; he has passed into the light
that is beyond the valley of the shadow of death ; the
places that have known him will know him no more, and
-42-
funeral service.
43
once more we are called upon to realize that in the midst
of life we are in death ; that He who watches over all our
destinies, has the spirits of the departed under his watch¬
ful care, and on the last great day will again connect the
chain of friendship so recently broken.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, see that Lodge
No Improved Penevolent and Protective Order of
Elks of the World is in position for the proper perform¬
ance of our funeral rites.
Esquire—Exalted Ruler, the Lodge is in position.
(Quartette may sing here, t
Exalted Ruler—My brothers, as no ceremony of a
solem character should be commenced without an invoca¬
tion to the Deity, let us pray.
Chaplain—O thou Grand Exalted Ruler of the Uni¬
verse, Giver of life and death, whose decree has called
from its earthly tenement the soul of our departed worthy
brother, grant us, we beseech Thee, the power to turn
our minds from all worldly objects, and by the contem¬
plation of this evidence of Thy power cause us more
faithfully to fulfill our obligations of Charity, Justice
and Brotherly Love, not only to our departed brother,
but toward each other, so that at Thy summons our sur¬
vivors may testify to our Fidelity. Grant, we beseech
Thee, eternal happiness to the spirit of our departed
brother, and forgive the trespasses of his life, so that he
shall become worthy of a place in the Eternal Lodge of
the hereafter, where we all hope to be reunited, never¬
more to part. Amen.
All---Amen.
Exalted Ruler—My brothers, ere we consign forever
44
funeral service.
the mortal remains of our deceased worthy brother to the
bosom of our common mother, the earth, it is fit and pro¬
per that we should, as Elks, testify to his faithful ad-
liearence to the grand objects of our Order. Brother
Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight---Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—From your station, what say you of
our departed brother ?
Esteemed Leading Knight---As Charity is the motto
of this station, I testify to bis faithful adherence to the
cause of Charity.
Exalted Ruler-—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler--What is just to our departed brother?
Esteemed Loyal Knight-—As the just deserve justice,
so I pronounce him faithful in Justice.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What do you, from your station, say
of our departed brother?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight---By the fraternal ties
which united him to Us, I pronounce him faithful to
Brotherly Love.
Exalted Ruler—Fidelity, my brother, embraces all
the others; and having been faithful ill Charity, faithful
iu Justice, faithful in Brotherly Love, I testify to his hav¬
ing been an Elk, upright and firm, and worthy to receive
from us such honors as are bestowed Upon the faithful
brothers who have preceded us to the Grahd Lodgfc of the
hereafter, there to receive from the Grand Exalted Ruler
of All the final degree of Eternity. (Tak^s the bouton-
niere.) Brothers, here we have the Amaranth, encircled
funeral service.
45
by the clinging Ivy. The former, from its unfading
nature, typical of the immortality of the soul. The Ivy
is the floral metaphor of devoted friendship-—with us the
symbol of Brotherly Love. In token of our belief in
the immortality of the soul, and emblematic of our
brotherly love, we will each deposit the amaranth and ivy
in the grave of our brother. Departed brother, may your
immortal soul enjoy an eternity of bliss in the presence
of our Father in Heaven. (Thowing spray of amaranth
and ivy in the grave.) Peace be with you !
All (repeating action)—Peace be with you.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler-—Has Charity been duly observed in
these obsequies.
Esteemed Leading Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler --Has Justice been done to your brother?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight-- Exalted Ruler.
^Exalted Ruler—Has the principle of Brotherly Love
been duly exemplified ?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Thus may we ever act as exemplars of
our grand objects—Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love
and Fidelity---so as to merit the blessings of the Exalted
Ruler of All.
Quartette, "Nearer my God to Thee," or brethren
will sing the Funeral Ode.
46
EUNERAL SERVICE.
FUNERAL ODE.
Great Ruler of the Universe,
AU-seeing and benign,
Look down upon and bless our Work,
And be all glory Thine.
O! bless this spot of hallowed earth!
Preserve it as our shrine,
Our tribute to departed worth
For "Auld Lang Syne."
Brothers having performed the proper rites .in accord¬
ance with the objects of our Order, I declare Lodge
No of the Improved Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks of the World closed without further form.
MEMORIAL SERVICE,
SACRED SESSION.
(Adopted at the Grand Lodge session held in the City of Cincinnati,
State of Ohio, Sept. 22,1898.)
Section 84. The first Sunday in December of each
year is hereby designated and dedicated as a day on
which shall be commemorated by every I^odge of Elks
the memories of our departed brothers, and shall be
known as "'The Elks' Memorial Day." The funeral
services of a departed brother shall be known as a "Lodge
of Sorrow."—Grand Lodge Laws.
(Stage containing Exalted Ruler, Chaplain, Eulogist and invited guests;
the Lodge being organized in the usual form, the audience occupying seats
around the hall._ The Lodge marches in thus: First, members two by two
taking their places as previously arranged, and remaining in a standing
position before their chairs. Second, officers of the Lodge in reverse order
doing the same, except the Exalted Ruler, Chaplain, Eulogist, etc., who
march two by two to the stage; all remaining standing until the gavel is
sounded, when they all take their seats.
When the four raps are given, all arise, having arms folded, with the
left hand clasping the right elbow, until the sign of grief is called, when all
carefully following the motions of the Exalted Ruler, give it thus:
The right hand is lifted from the position of folded arms above de¬
scribed, so as to be placed over and veiling the eyes, the head slighily bowsd,
the left hand still clasping the right elbow; then as if wiping tears from the
eyes with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand that hand is slowly
stretched forward, held extended an instant, and then with left dropped to
sides.)
•
OPENING CEREMONIES.
Exalted Ruler—-Brothers, this day and date reminds
us that we again pay our mournful tribute of affection to
our honored dead. Often we have been reminded, in
these solemn ceremonies, that we were born to die; that
other spirits have taken their departure. The light of
the eye has gone out, and the lips which once breathed
-47-
48
MEMORIAL SERVICE.
the language of fraternal greetings, are silent forever-
more. Yet these annual gatherings only tend to unite
this great brotherhood more closely together.
The animal from which our Order derives its name is
noted for gentleness and timidity. It is strong of limb,
fleet of foot, quick and keen of perception. So should
we always be, my brothers, quick to perceive, or to hear
the cry of distress, timorous of doing wrong, and fleet of
foot to relieve misfortune; bury our dead and keep alive
and commemorate the virtues of those who have fallen in
life's battles. Brother Secretary, you will please call the
roll of our honored dead.
Secretary will' call roll slowly of those who have died during the year <
and since last memorial service.)
Exalted Ruler—In vain we call upon them; they have
passed into the light that is beyond the valley of the sha¬
dow of death; the places that have known them will
know them no more, and once more we are called upon
to realize that in the midst of life we are in death; that
He who watches over all our destinies has the spirits of
the departed under his watchful care, and on that last
great day will again connect the chain of friendship so
recently broken.
Quartette or other appropriate mubic.)
• •
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight,
what duties hg.ve we now to perform ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—To pay those charitable
offices to the memory of the departed which will serve to
perpetuate their virtues and keep them fresh in ouf
memory.
MEMORIAL SERVICB.
49
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight,
What is your duty ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—To constantly see th
Charity governs all our actions, not only with the living,
but also in commemorating the virtues of those who have
been called from our midst,
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight,
What is your duty ?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—To see that the scales of
Justice are equally poised while judging the merits of
those who have gone before, and to remind my brothers
to be just to the memory of the departed.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight,
what is your duty ?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—To throw the bright
shield of Brotherly Love around the memory of our de¬
ceased brothers, and to remind the living that out of the
darkness of the grave spring the most glowing hopes of
immortality.
Exalted Ruler - Brother Treasurer what is your duty?
Treasurer—To teach my brothers that when their
earthly accounts are closed, it will be their deeds which
will aid them in partaking of the treasures of the upper
and better world.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Secretary, what is your duty?
Searetary—To faithfully record the virtues of our
departed brothers, and to teach the living that the
brightest record we can bequeth to those whom we leave
behind, is that gained by the faithful practice of Charity,
Justice and Brotherly Love.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Inner Guard, what is your
duty ?
5°
MEMORIAL SERVICE.
Inner Guard—To teach my brothers that, no earthly
guard can prevent the entrance of the grim tyrant, death,
into our midst.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight,
what is the duty of the Exalted Ruler ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—To carefully guide the
brothers in the performance of their duties, and to teach
them that by their actions will be judged the purity and
fidelity of their motives.
• • • •
Exalted Ruler—Thus may we ever act, and may our
actions be ever controlled by the Exalted Ruler above ;
and when any of our number shall be called into the spirit
world, may we write, their faults upon the sand, and their
virtues upon the tablets of love and memory.
Recommending these sentiments to your earnest con¬
sideration, and soliciting your services in the solemn cere¬
monies about to take place, I declare this Lodge of Sor¬
row opened. Brothers will give the sign of grief. (As
before described.)
Brothers will sing the opening ode, after which the
Chaplain will invoke the blessing.
ORDER OF EXERCISES.
Organ Voluntary.
Opening Ceremonies,
Opening Ode—Great Ruler of the Universe,
All-seeing and benign,
Look down upon and bless our work,
And be all glory Thine 1
Oh! hear our prayers for the honored dead,
While bearing in our minds,
The memories graven on each heart
For "Auld Lang Syne."
memorial service.
5i
Prayer,
Hymn, Quartette.
General Eulogy or appropriate poem.
Quartette.
Eulogy.
Organ Voluntary.
Eulogy.
closing Ceremonies.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight,
has Charity been the governing virtue of our exercises ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight, has
a just tribute been rendered to the memory of the de¬
parted?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight,
have we paid a due regard to Brotherly Love ?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—We have.
Exalted Ruler—Thus may we ever act, proving the
fidelity of our memories, and practicing those truly com¬
mendable virtues-—Charity, Justice and Brotherly
Love.
The audience joining in the doxology,
Benediction.
DEDICATION OF HALL.
(The ceremony may be performed in the presence of an audience, made
up of the public or in a lodge room, with closed doors. If other than
members are present, the honors will be omitted. The Grand Lodge officers
(or its representatives), properly clothed, will form in the outer room,
also the members, The Esquire will arrange procession: first, members,
two by two; second, officers of the Lodge in reverse order; third. Grand
officers, Orator and Chaplain. The procession will proceed to inner lodge
room door, and by some alarm attract Inner Guard's attention.)
Inner Guard—Who comes here?
Grand Esquire—The Grand Exalted Ruler (or Deputy)
and other officers of the Grand Lodge Improved Benevo¬
lent and Protective Order of Elks, who desire to be ad¬
mitted, in the name of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love
and Fidelity, for the purpose of dedicating this hall to
the uses of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order
of Elks of the World.
Inner Guard - Enter, in the name of Charity, Justice
and Brotherly Love.
(Organ—March, The procession will enter, members opening ranks,
the officers and Grand officers marching through to their positions and re¬
maining standing.)
(Here sing ode "Great Ruler of the Universe.)
(Grand Exalted Ruler stands at the head; Grand Esteemed Leading
Knight at the foot; Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight, left side; Grand
Esteemed Lecturing Knight, right side; Esquire and Chaplain, respectively,
right and left of Grand. Exalted Ruler: Secretary and Treasurer, with
Loyal and Lecturing Knights; Inner Guard and Tiler, right and left of
Grand Esteemed Leading Knight.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—Our Grand Chaplain will now
address the Throne of Grace.
Grand Chaplain O Thou Grand Exalted Ruler of
the Universe, direct us in all our doings, with Thy most
gracious favor, and further us with Thy continued help,
that in the dedication of our new hall, begun, continued
-62-
DEDICATION OF HALL.
53
and ended in Thee, we may glorify Thy Holy Name, and
finally by Thy mercy obtain everlasting life. Amen.
Grand Exalted Ruler—The brothers will please be
seated.
Grand Esquire—Grand Exalted Ruler, is it your will
and _ pleasure that the ceremony of dedicating this hall to
the busisess and purposes of Lodge, do now proceed ?
Grand Exalted Ruler—Such is my will and pleasure.
Grand, Esquire—So be it then done.
Grand. I^xalted Ruler—Perhaps around no one thing
in human h|§tory have the thoughts of men clustered with
more of interest and reverence, than around the altar.
Before it all nations have bowed; at its sacred shrine all
have worshipped; here all sects and creeds, however di¬
vergent in faith,' have offered their most hallowed sacri¬
fices ; here have We taken upon ourselves solemn obliga¬
tions ; everywhere;, and in all ages whose records have
come down to us, the hallowed associations of the altar
have formed the great central attraction in all worships ;
wherever erected, or for whatever purpose, whether for
sacrifice or memorial, they have in all ages commanded
the most profound reverence. Moved by this universal
sentiment, is it any wonder then, that the Elks have their
altar, their sacred shrine, around and before which they
bow and worship.
Taking possession of this beautiful temple, which is
about to be solemnly dedicated to the principles of Char¬
ity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity, no further
ceremony should lawfully proceed until we build our altar.
Worthy Esteemed Leading Knight, Esteemed Loyal
Knight, and Esteemed Lecturing Knight, are all things
now in readiness?
54
DEDICATION OF HALL.
Esteemed Leading, Loyal and Lecturing Knight (in
unison)—They are.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Grand Esteemed Leading
Knight, as it is your duty to practice Charity towards
all mankind, and our brothers in particular, and witkout
which no one can become a true Elk, bring forth and
place upon our altar a white stone.
(Blocks made of wood may be used.)
(Esteemed Leading Knight brings in a representation of a white stone,
with the word Charity painted on the face of it.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—And may the letters engraved
on that stone be a constant reminder of our duty to our
fellow man.
The next principle we cherish in our onward progress,
is Justice—justice to our brothers in particular, and jus¬
tice to all mankind. Worthy Grand Esteemed Loyal
Knight—
Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight— Grand Exalted Ruler.
Grand Exalted Ruler—As it is your duty to see that
justice prevails in our transactions, bring forth and place
upon this altar the motto of your office.
(Esteemed Loyal Knight brings in a representation of a pink stone,
lettered "Justice", and places it on altar.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—This teaches us that justice
should at all times prevail, and by no circumstances be
turned from a worthy brother.
Grand Esteemed Lecturing Knight, as it is one of the
fundamental principles of our Order "to do unto others
as we would have others do unto us," giving to life new
impulse, we should have from your station that which is
grand and ennobling, the motto of Brotherly Love.
PEDICATION OF HALL.
55
Bring forth and place upon the altar the stone represented
by the color of the Forget-Me-Not.
(Esteemed Loyal Knight here brings in a representation of a blue stone,
lettered "Brotherly Lore , and places it on the altar.)
: Grand Exalted Ruler—Thus every brother is brought
under the influence of the principles of our Order, and
becomes permeated with love and good will toward his
fellows. Last, in all its purity, comes Fidelity, that tri¬
umphal virtue represented from this station. Brother
Esquire, place it upon the altar. How beautifully appro¬
priate to the completed structure of Elkdom. See to it
well, my brothers, that no one bearing this high distinc¬
tion wears it unworthy.
(Esquire places another stone (scarlet), lettered "Fidelity," on the last,)
56
DEDICATION OF HALL.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Fidelity. Planted on the solid
rock of truth, it shall spread its never fading verdure
along life's thorny pathway, cheering the despondent and
bearing up as on eagle's pinions, the fainting, siiiking,
care-worn brother. Thus stands our completed altar ;
embodiment of the grand principles that underlie the
fabric of our noble Order. To-night we assemble, in the
name of our Order, to set apart and dedicate to these
ennobling virtues—Charity, Justice. Brotherly Love
and Fidelity—arising in all their beauty, this new and
beautiful hall.
(Quartette may sing here.)
(The Exalted Ruler or President of Building Committee, will then step
forward and present the keys of the hall to the Grand Exalted Ruler.)
Exalted Ruler—We meet you here to-night to announce
that the work in which we have been engaged, is finished
and our temple is at last ready to shelter us within its
walls. It is not the business of the committee to allude
to its own labors, nor the manner in which these labors
have been performed; nor would good taste permit them
to descant on the fitness of our edifice, for the purpose for
which it is designed. It is capable of speaking for itself,
through its proportions and its style. If these would fail
to impress you, any words of mine would prove worse than
useless. I have only to repeat that our work is finished,
and in behalf of Lodge, No I make request
that this hall be set apart and dedicated to the business
and purposes of the Improved Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Exalted Ruler (or Chairman
of Building Committee), in the name of and on behalf of
DEDICATION OF HALL.
57
the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks
of the World I accept for dedication to the uses of the
Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the
World, this hall, which has been constructed under your
supervision. To you and your associates the present
must be an occasion especially gratifying. To-day you
witness the consummation of that for which you have
zealously and faithfully labored ; and I congratulate you
upon the completion of this beautiful hall, which we are
about to dedicate to those cardinal virtues which should
adorn and elevate humanity, and the names of which we
have selected as mottos of our beloved Order. Beneath
this root you are to encourage one another in the duties
of Benevolence and Charity ; before the altar, the good
words of Charity, Justice and Brotherly Love are ever to
be presented. From here, as from a perennial fountain,
is to flow the gentle stream of brotherly love to gladden
and make green many waste places. In this quiet retreat
are to be cultivated those flowers that love, unfeigned,
shall scatter on the rugged pathway of life. Here is to be
sown the good seed, to spring up and yield its hundred¬
fold harvest. It is, therefore, not so much this temple,
made with hands, that should occupy our attention at
present, as the great principles that are here to be dis¬
seminated. I hope and trust, brothers, that our united
efforts, with those of our brothers throughout the land,
may lead to the raising and adorning of a much nobler
temple which shall be consecrated by the approval of the
Grand Exalted Ruler of the Universe, without the invo¬
cation of Whose blessing no work can be successful.
• • • •
(The brothers will rise and unite with the Grand Chaplain in prayer.)
58
DEDICATION OF HALL.
Grand Chaplain—Almighty God, the maker of all
things, whom we are taught to approach and call by the
tender name of "Father,'' we would humbly draw near
and beg Thy blessing on the work in which we are en¬
gaged. Whatever is amiss in us do Thou make right by
Thy Divine power, and in all things do Thou overrule
our thoughts and deeds, to Thy greater glory and the
good of our fellow men. Amen.
(Introduce solo or quartette.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading
Knight, what is the object of our organization ?
Grand Esteemed Leading Knight—To practice char¬
ity towards all mankind.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Bro. Esteemed Loyal Knight,
how should our deliberations be conducted ?
Grand Esteemed Loyal Knight—Justice should pre¬
vail in all our deeds.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing
Knight, how should our intercourse, as Elks, be gov¬
erned ?
Grand Esteemed Lecturing Knight—We are taught
to bear and forbear.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Thns may we ever act, and
may our actions be ever controlled by the Grand Exalted
Ruler above. Hear, hear, hear, all men, by authority
and in the name of the Grand Lodge of the Improved
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World. I
dedicate this hall to the business and purposes of the
Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the
World, to the dissemination of Charity, Justice, Brotherly
Love and Fidelity ; and by this solemn [uplift hand] act,
DEDICATION OF HALL.
59
I declare this hall to be duly dedicated. The Grand Es¬
quire will please cause this dedication to be appropriately
proclaimed.
Grand Esquire—Brothers Lodge, No Im¬
proved, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the
World. By this solemn act of the Grand Exalted Ruler
(or Deputy or representative) of the Improved Benevo¬
lent and Protective Order of Elks of the World, this hall
is duly dedicated to the business and purposes of the Im¬
proved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the
World for the dissemination of Charity, Justice, Brotherly
Love and Fidelity. It is his will and pleasure that the
same be proclaimed, which duty I now perform. (Sprin¬
kling water ) Behold, in the name of Charity, Justice,
Brotherly Love and Fidelity, I hereby dedicate this hall.
(Coronation Hymn or other triumphant music here.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—The brothers will rise and the
Grand Chaplain will address the Throne of Grace.
Grand Chaplain—We humbly beseech Thee, O God,
to bless the work in which we have just been engaged.
Let the lessons we have received sink deep into our hearts
so that this shall have been to us no idle ceremony, but a
means of edification in righteousness, and truth, and
humanity. May we all leave this place with our good
resolutions strengthened, our thoughts enlarged, and our
hearts expanded in all-embracing love towards our broth¬
ers throughout the land. Bless, O Heavenly Father, the
Order of which we are members; aid us in the good work
of Benevolence and Charity, and give direction and suc¬
cess to our efforts. Bless this edifice in the promotion of
the good objects to which it has this day been set apart.
6o
DEDICATION OF HALL.
Let Thy protecting care be over the brothers who shall
meet here together ; keep their feet upon the right path,
and guide them by Thy power in the way everlasting
make them faithful to their duties and zealous in every
good word and work, so that when the solemn close of
life comes, the soul of each may be stayed on Thee; and
unto Thee, our God and Father, be ascribed glory and
dominion, and power, world without end. Amen.
•
Grand Exalted Ruler—The brothers will be seated.
My brothers, I trust that the solemn ceremonies of this
occation may not be lost upon our hearts. In setting
apart this hall for its noble purposes, we have renewed
our vows to practice conscientiously the lessons of our
beloved Order. Let us never forget the imperative com¬
mand of our laws. "The faults of our brothers we should
write on the sands, their virtues on the tablets of love and
memory." Let us not forget, moreover, that besides our
other works, the Improved Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks of the World have high and important
lessons that, if attentively listened to and practiced by
all, would elevate the character of man and hasten the
coming of the promised day of universal peace and love.
Brothers of Lodge, No , we now again deliver
into your hands (presenting the key) this beautiful tem¬
ple you have elevated to our Order. Joy be within its
walls, and peace a constant guest. May the walls never
echo with the sound of an angry or unkind word. May,
all the influences that flow hence be good and for good,
now and forevermore. Amen.
DEDICATION OF HALL.
6l
(Appropriate vocal music. The orator will here deliver address.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—The audience will please rise
and unite in singing our closing ode.
Grand Exalted Ruler—The Chaplain will please pro¬
nounce the benediction.
Grand Chaplain—Now unto Him who is able to keep
you from falling, and to present you faultless before the
presence of His Glory with exceeding joy, I commend
you and the whole Order of Elks.
DEDICATION OF AN ELKS' REST.
Exalted Ruler (Lodge standing)—Brother Esquire,
you will organize the Lodge. #
Esquire—The Lodge is duly organized.
Exalted Ruler—My dear brothers, we are assembled
today to perform the sacred duty of dedicating the last
resting place of our departed brothers. As no great and
important undertaking should be entered upon without
invoking the devine blessing, therefore, brethren, let us
pray.
Chaplain—Oh ! Thou Exalted Ruler of the Universe,
Almighty and Merciful Father, we reverently and humbly
pray that Thou wilt bless our present assembling, and
accept in Thy Holy Name the work we offer. Especially
do we beseech Thee, Oh Father, that this enclosure which
we have met this day to consecrate to the interment of
our departed brothers, may ever remain a sacred resting
place for our loved ones. Grant that the monument,
typical of a glorious resurrection, which we this day un¬
veil to their memory, may ever stand as a sign of Thy
never failing promise to the faithful living, and Thy per¬
fect reward to the faithful dead. Bless, we pray Thee,
the labors of our fraternity in the aid of widows and
orphans of those whose bodies shall be interred beneath
these sods of earth; encourage our efforts to dry the
tears of the orphan, and vouchsafe to us the material help
to lift them out of poverty and distress. With Thy ever
present aid let the scope of our charity be more and more
enlarged ; let our minds be satisfied with a more perfect
sense of Thy eternal justice; let our hearts throb with
-62—
DEDICATION OF ELKS' REST.
63
the brotherly love Thou hast ordained to all mankind,
and the future reveal the fruition of our fidelity in an
eternal bliss with Thee ; and to Thee be ascribed all the
glory, forevermore. Amen.
(Quartette.)
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—In connection with the duty to be
performed, what recommendation consistent with your
station and motto have you to make ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—As Charity is the motto
of this station, and as we should practice charity in its
broadest sense—charity in thought, word and deed, I re¬
commend that this sacred place be dedicated in the name
of Charity.
QUARTETTE.
Charity, true charity, a plant divinely nursed,
Fed by the love from which it rose at first,
Thrives against hope, and in the rudest scene,
Storms but enliven its unfading green.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—What do you offer from your station?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—We are taught to practice
justice toward the living, to do justice to the memory of
the departed, and to expect justice at the hands of our
Heavenly Father. Therefore, this holy place ought to
be dedicated in the name of Justice,
QUARTETTE.
Justice, when equal scales she holds, is blind,
Nor cruelty, nor mercy change her mind.
So near approach we the celestial kind,
By justice, truth and probity of mind.
64
DEDICATION OF AN ELKS' REST.
Exalted Ruler—Bro. Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—From your station, what request do
you desire to make?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—We are taught that "we
should write the faults of our brothers upon the sands,
their virtues upon the tablets of love and memory";
therefore, it is my request that this sacred plot be dedi¬
cated in the name of Brotherly Love.
QUARTETTE.
When brothers in their needs fall nigh
With deeds of kinship, bear above
Like Elks' broad antlers branching high
Our Order's lofty symbolled love.
Exalted Ruler—My brothers, as the great principles
of Charity, Justice and Brotherly Love are in perfect
accord with Fidelity, it is proper that this holy place be
dedicated in the name of Fidelity.
QUARTETTE.
Fidelity, thy bond we bring,
Our Order's tie to be;
Thy praise and power, fraternal sing,
Our strength we find in thee.
[Selection—"Nearer My God to Thee."
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—In connection with the duty before
us, have the brothers any special desire to present through
you and from your station ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—As Charity should always
govern our thoughts and acts, it is proper that this cere¬
mony of dedication, this great virtue should be made a
prominent feature ; I request, therefore, Exalted Ruler,
DEDICATION OF ELKS' REST.
65
on the part of the brothers of Lodge, No ,
that we dedicate this plot in the name of Charity.
Exalted Ruler— Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—Have you anything to offer from your
station ?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Our rules teach us to prac¬
tice Justice toward our brothers here on earth, to do
justice to the memory of our departed brothers, and
perfect justice we all must undergo at the hands of "our
Father in Heaven ! It is fitting, therefore, that in the
name of Jussice this spot should be dedicated.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—From your station, my brother, what
remains to be said ?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—"The faults of our
brothers we shall write on the sand, their virtues on the
tablets of love and memory." I ask, therefore, Exalted
Ruler, that we dedicate this spot, the "Elks' Rest," in
the sweet name of Brotherly Love.
Exalted Ruler—The sentiments expressed from every
station are in perfect accord with our teachings; they
show the fidelity of our thoughts to the grand objects of
our Order. All the desires expressed shall be carefully
observed. Brother Esquire.
Esquire—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—You will proceed to the several stations
and receive from the officers their appropriate directions.
Esteemed Leading Knight—In the name of Charity,
which reacheth beyond the grave, we solemnly dedicate
this spot to the burial of our departed brothers. Bro.
66
DEDICATION OF ELKS' REST.
Esquire, you will place this emblem upon the northeast
corner of the monument, and then make suitable procla¬
mation.
Esquire—By order of the Esteemed Leading Knight
I now place this emblem, and I hereby proclaim this
spot forever dedicated, in the name of Charity, to
the burial of our departed brothers.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—In the name of Justice,
which we all must meet at the hands of our Universal
Father, and with trust in His infinite mercy, we solemnly
dedicate this spot to the burial of our departed brothers.
Brother Esquire, you will place the emblem upon the
northwest corner of the monument and make suitable pro¬
clamation.
Esquire—By order of the Esteemed Loyal Knight I
now place this emblem, and I thereby proclaim this spot
forever dedicated, in the name of Justice, to the burial of
our departed brothers.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—In the name of the
Brotherly Love we all feel for our associates wherever
dispersed, whether living or dead, and with the prayer
that the Great Creator may fill us with a greater degree
of love, pity and benevolence for the poor and distressed,
we solemnly dedicate this spot to the burial of our de¬
parted brothers. Brother Esquire, you will place this
emblem upon the southeast corner of the monument and
make suitable proclamation.
Esquire— By order of the Esteemed Lecturing Knight
I now place this emblem, and I hereby proclaim this spot
fo/ever dedicated in the name of Brotherly Love, to the
burial of our departed brothers.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esquire, you will place this
DEDICATION OF ELKS' REST.
67
the emblem of Fidelity, upon the southwest corner of the
monument, and there make suitable proclamation.
Esquire—By the order of the Exalted Ruler I now
place this emblem, and I hereby proclaim this spot for¬
ever dedicated in the name of Fidelity, to the burial of
our departed brothers.
Esquire—Exalted Ruler, all the significant emblems
of the Order have been placed in proper position.
Exalted Kuler—'Tis well.
Exalted Ruler (addressing District Deputy)—Brother
District Deputy, it now becomes my duty to request in
the name of Lodge, No that you, the repre¬
sentative in this state of the Grand Lodge of the Order,
give your sanction to these proceedings, and officially ap¬
prove our work by suitable proclamation.
District Deputy (responding)—Exalted Ruler and
Brothers of Lodge, No , by virtue of the
authority in me vested as the representative of the Grand
Lodge, and in the name of Charity, Justice and Brotherly
Love, with the hope that the all-seeing and Eternal Ruler
of the Universe may enable this Lodge to keep the trust
this day created, with the utmost Fidelity, I now declare
this plot, the "Elks' Rest," forever dedicated to the in¬
terment of departed brothers of our Order.
Exalted Ruler—Brothers, in order that me may ap¬
propriately close this part of the ceremony, the Lodge
will sing our closing ode. "Auld Lang Syne."
[Or quartette may sing.]
LODGE ODE.
Great Ruler of the Universe,
All-seeing and benign,
Look down upon and bless our work,
And be all glory Thine.
68
DEDICATION OF ELKS' REST.
O! bless this spot of hallowed earth!
Preserve it as our shrine,
Our tribute to departed worth
For "Auld Lang Syne."
Exalted Ruler—At this part of the dedicatory exerci¬
ses the pleasant duty devolves upon me to request (who¬
ever may be selected to unveil statue—Miss or Mr.) to
unveil for us this statue, typical of the origin, title and
objects of our organization.
Miss (or Mr.)—By the kind and partial favor of
Lodge, No it is my great pleasure to unveil this
beautiful emblem of the Improved Benevolent and Pro¬
tective Order of Elks of the World. "It shall ever re¬
main uncovered to point the way to the last resting place."
[Quartette or solo.—Oration.—Other speakers may follow.]
Exalted Ruler—All the requirements of our laws hav¬
ing been fully complied with, I now, by virtue of the
power vested in me by the Grand Lodge, declare this
Elks' Rest forever duly dedicated to the purposes of
Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Leading Knight.
Esteemed Leading Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler—Has Charity been duly observed in
these ceremonies ?
Esteemed Leading Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight.
Esteemed Loyal Knight—Exalted Ruler.
Exalted Ruler - Has justice been done to all the re¬
quirements of our obligations?
Esteemed Loyal Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight.
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—Exalted Ruler.
DEDICATION OF ELKS' REST.
69
Exalted Ruler—Has the principle of Brotherly Love
been duly exemplified?
Esteemed Lecturing Knight—It has.
Exalted Ruler—Then, with ever enduring Fidelity to
the noble principles of our Order, I declare this Lodge of
Dedication duly closed.
LAYING OF CORNER STONE.
At the appointed time the Order shall assemble and
the procession shall be formed by the Esquire as follows.
ESCORT. BANNER ESCORT.
(Carried by Tiler).
.ESQUIRE
(with drawn sword).
INNER GUARD,
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS,
PAST EXALTED RULERS,
SECRETARY, TREASURER,
CHAPLAIN, ORGANIST,
LECTURING KNIGHT, ORATOR,
LOYAL KNIGHT, LEADING KNIGHT,
EXALTED RULER.
(If the hall is the property of the Grand Lodge or a subordinate lodge,
the ceremony shall be performed by such body, and the procession shall be
under the control of the Esquire. The officiating officer shall be addressed
by the title of the office he represents, and the langaage of the ceremony
shall be in accordance with the occasion.
Sbould the ceremony be performed by the Grand Exalted Ruler or
District Deputy, the title of that officer should be substituted for Exalted
Ruler, as the case may be. An officer duly commissioned, or officiating as a
Grand, officer, shall be addressed by the title of the office he represents.
If the ceremony is conducted by the Grand Lodge, or a subordinate
lodge, the Grand Secretary or Secretary, as the case may be, shall carry the
documents, etc., for deposit in the box. The Grand Treasurer or Treasurer,
as the case may be, shall carry the box to be deposited in the corner-stone.
The Grand Chaplain or Chaplain, as the case may be, shall carry the
Bible [which may be open]. The Grand Tiler or Tiler shall carry a silver
vessel containing water. The Grand Exalted Ruler or Exalted Ruler, as the
case may be, shall bear a gavel.
The procession, on reaching a convenient distance from the place of
destination, will halt and open to the right anp left. The principal officers
will then pass through, including the orator and invited guests, the remain¬
der of the brothers closing up in reversed order, and following on until they
reach the platform or other spot set apart for the ceremony. They will then
form a hollow square, with the officers in their appropriate positions.
-70-
laying oe corner stone.
71
Opening.
Exalted Ruler—My brothers, we have assembled here
today to perform an interesting and important ceremony
—important, because this building is to be dedicated to
the use of our noble Order—interesting, because our prin¬
ciples of Charity, Justice and Brotherly Love are to be
disseminated and cemented in the construction of the very
walls. The spot on which we stand has been selected
upon which to erect a temple to be consecrated to the no¬
ble principles before mentioned, and we are here to day
to inaugurate the enterprise by laying the first founda¬
tion or cornerstone in the structure, with the solemn cere¬
mony befitting such an occation. The work so auspi¬
ciously begun can be completed only by persevering effort
and patient industry, and we should enter upon it with
a determination to carry it forward to completion ; until
its capstone shall be reached with rejoicings, and the edi¬
fice shall present beauty, symmetry and proportion in every
way adapted to the uses and purposes of the Improved
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Before proceed¬
ing any further in the duties of the occasion, it is fit and
proper that we invoke the aid of the Grand Exalted Ruler,
without whose good offices no work can succeed. Our
Chaplain will now address the Throne of Grace.
(The Exalted Ruler gives four raps of the gavel • • • • )
Chaplain—O, Thou who didst lay the foundations of
the earth, and in Whom alone we live and move and have
our being, we beseech Thee to command Thy blessing to
rest upon the work which we this day begin. L,et its
towering walls be erected and consecrated in Thy sight to
the great principles that rule our Order ; honor it with
72
LAYING OF CORNER STONE.
Thine approving smile, and prosper it to its final accom¬
plishment and to the glory of Thy name and the happi¬
ness of our great brotherhood. Amen.
All say—Amen.
(The Secretary will then read the record to be deposited in the stone,
with a list of the documents, coins, etc, and hand the list, with the articles
to be deposited, to the Treasurer, who will place same in the box. The
Exalted Ruler, accompanied by the Chaplain and the officers, will then de¬
scend to the stone. The Treasurer will then present the box to the Exalted
Ruler, who will place it in the cavity prepared for it and adjust cover. The
stone will then be fitted in its place.)
Exalted Ruler (receiving from the Tiler the vessel
containing water)—In the name of that Charity which
we are taught to practice to all mankind, that Justice
that warns us of speedy retribution, Brotherly Love as
pure as this water, and Fidelity unfaultering (sprinkling
water on stone) I lay this corner stone, and as it here
forms the basis of this edifice, binding together in har¬
mony and cosistencv the component parts of its super¬
structure, so may true fidelity ever constitute the founda¬
tion of our social fabric, and unite the family of man un¬
der the antlers of our fraternal Order. May Brotherly
Love ever be the chief foundation stone of the moral
temple of our Order, and the divine influence of Justice
ever animate our hearts.
(Quartette or cornet solo.)
(The architect will then deliver a trowel with mortar to the Exalted
Ruler, who shall spread it upon the corner-stone, placing another stone on
top thereof.)
Exalted Ruler --As this cement binds together these
two important stones of this wall, so may the cement of
brotherly affection bind us together during all the days of
our lives, and so may the cement of divine love unite
LA-YING OF CORNER STONE.
73
us as living stones in the temple above, the house not
made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
(The officers will then return to platform.)
Exalted Ruler —I hereby declare this corjier-stone duly
laid according to law, and the building that is to rise
upon it, devoted to the principles and work of the Im¬
proved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the
World. The brothers and friends here assembled will
now give attention to the Chaplain.
Chaplain—O Thou Grand Exalted Ruler of the Uni¬
verse, Giver of life and death, accept, we humbly pray
Thee, the work of our hands this day performed, and
strengthen us by Thy blessing to build upon this corner¬
stone a temple in which shall be taught the great princi¬
ples of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity to
all mankind and our brothers in particular. Grant, we
beseech Thee, courage to those who have undertaken the
work of building this edifice, that they may be better en¬
abled to carry it forward to entire completion. Endow
with Thy grace those who are engaged in the construc¬
tion of the building, and preserve them from danger and
accident while thus engaged. Prosper, we beseech Thee,
our noble Order by the continued smile of Thy approving
countenance. Grant us success in all our aims and
efforts to benefit mankind. May it ever rest upon the
sure foundation of brotherly love, and ever exert a moral
influence over our minds and consciences, and finally, we
pray Thee, O Lord, that Thou wilt forgive the trespasses
of our lives, so that after the trials and tribulations of
this world, we shall become worthy of a place in the
eternal lodge of the hereafter. Amen.
74
LAYING OF CORNER STONB.
All say—Amen.
(Quartette or other musical selection.)
(Oration.)
(Musical selection or any other appropriate ceremony.)
And now, my brothers, the duty assigned us has been
performed. We have begun a good work; it now remains
for you to finish it. Having entered upon this important
enterprise, I am confident you will carry it out success¬
fully. May it be a temple worthy of being dedicated to
the great principles of our Order, and devoted to our
worthy objects of "trying to do unto others as we would
have others do unto us."
(Brothers will sing):
Great Ruler of the Universe,
All-seeing and benign,
Look down upon and bless our work,
And be all glory Thine 1
(Exalted Ruler gives four blows of gav»l • • • • )
Exalted Ruler—All the requirements of our laws hav¬
ing been complied with, by the power vested in me by
the Grand Lodge for that purpose, I now declare this
corner-stone in position.
(The procession will then reform in the same order and return to the
place of starting.)
HOW TO ORGANIZE A LODGE OF ELKS.
The application for a dispensation for a new Lodge
must be made to the District Deputy of the state or dis¬
trict in which the place is located. Fifty dollars must
accompany the application. The names of at least
twenty-five reputable citizens who are residents of the
place desiring a lodge, must be signed to the charter list.
When the District Deputy has approved the application,
he must have the petition signed by at least three Elks,
and the application, charter list and petition with check
for fifty dollars to pay for the dispensation, must be for¬
warded to the office of the Grand Secretary. The Dis¬
trict Deputy should designate a convenient date for the
institution of the Lodge, and should notify the Grand
Secretary so that he may have time to secure supplies
and prepare the necessary papers. The Lodge that was
instrumental in getting up the new Lodge should have the
honor of performing the work of the institution. Where
more than one Lodge is present at the institution of a
Lodge, the District Deputy should aim as far as possible
to recognize the various lodges present in the labors to be
performed. The District Deputy or his representative,
being the person he may designate to act in his place if
he is not able to be present, should have in his possession
the dispensation.
The supplies in detail will be found complete in the
chest sent out by the Grand Secretary. The District
Deputy should call the meeting to order and notify all
present to retire. He should then examine each person
privately and admit no one in the lodge room unless he
has his visiting card showing that he is in good standing.
—75—
76
HOW TO ORGANIZE A LODGE OF ELKS.
When this labor has been performed he should then act
as Grand Exalted Ruler and proceed to organize a Grand
Lodge for the purpose of instituting Lodge, No
He should appoint brothers from the various lodges to
fill the several stations in the Lodge, and when they have
all taken their places he should open the Grand Lodge,
which should remain in session until the work of institu¬
tion has been completed, and the officers of the new
Lodge have been installed, when he shall declare the
Grand Lodge adjourned and turn the gavel over to the
Exalted Ruler of the new Lodge.
JL
DISTRICT DEPUTY.
Form of Institution of a New Lodge.
The Lodge is duly opened.
The Grand Lodge representative takes the position of the Exalted Ruler
and appoints a representative for Grand Esquire and Grand Chaplain (if
the Grand Esquire and Grand Chaplain are not present) and directs the
Grand Esquire to place upon the altar the jewelg of the several stations.
The Installing officer, as the representative of the Grand Lodge, is to be
addressed as Grand Exalted Ruler. The following form is then observed;
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Grand Esquire, you
will see that Lodge, No is duly organized and
in proper order for installation.
Grand Esquire will then see that the outer door is properly tiled, that
decorum and perfect order are manifest, and that the Secretary is prepared
to record the proceedings, after which he will report as follows:
Grand Esquire—Grand Exalted Ruler, Lodge,
No is duly organized and in proper form for instal¬
lation.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brothers, we are now about to
engage in a solemn undertaking, it is proper, therefore,
that help should be asked from the Exalted Ruler of All.
• • • •
Grand Chaplain—Brothers, let us pray. "Exalted
Ruler of the Universe, bestow Thy blessing upon this
assemblage and upon the labors in which they are about
to engage. Imbue the officers and members of this
Lodge with Charity, Justice and Brotherly Love, that they
may be enabled to perform the stipulations of their obli¬
gations with the strictest Fidelity. Amen."
All—Amen.
-77-
78
FORM OF INSTITUTION.
Grand Exalted Ruler—All the Requirements of our
Laws having been performed, by the power vested in me
by the Grand Lodge for that purpose, I now declare
Lodge, No duly installed.
Brothers of Lodge, No you will now pro¬
ceed to nominate and elect officers to fill the positions in
your Lodge until the next annual election in March.
The election of officers being completed, the Grand Exalted Ruler wil
install them in the following manner. This form ia the same wh ether itbe
a new Lodge or a chartered Lodge.
The following is the order of election of officers:
s Exalted Ruler,
•*«*- Esteemed Leading Knight,
Esteemed Loyal Knight,
Esteemed Lecturing Knight,
Secretary,
Treasurer,
' Tiler,
Trustees.
The following are appointed by the Exalted Ruler as soon as convenient
after his installation :
Esquire,
Inner Guard,
Chaplain,
Organist,
Grand Organizer,
Grand Medical Director,
Grand Master Social Session.
INSTALLATION.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Grand Esquire.
Grand Esquire—Grand Exalted Ruler.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Have the officers of
Lodge, No..... been duly elected according to law? '
Grand Esquire—They have, Grand Exalted Ruler.
Grand Exalted Ruler—The officers-elect will please
retire for examination. Grand Esquire, yon will also re¬
tire with the officers-elect and carefully examine the can¬
didates for installation.
(After the Examination of the candidates the Grand Esquire will so an
nounce through the Inner Guard.)
Grand Inner Guard—The Grand Esquire with the
Grand officers-elect for installation.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Admit them. (Calls Lodge up.)
(The Grand Esquire and officers-elect will enter in the order in which
they were elected, the Grand Esquire preceding while Lodge sings):
Great Ruler of the Universe,
All-seeing and benign;
Look down upon and!))ess our work,
And be all glory Thine, &c., &c.
(Or any other appropriate ode may be substituted.)
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Grand Esquire," place
the officers-elect before the altar.
(The Grand Esquire conducts all the offlcers-elect before the altar and
addresses the Grana Exalted Ruler thus):
Grand Esquire—Grand Exalted Ruler, I have the
pleasure of presenting to you for installation Brother ,
-79-
8o
INSTALLATION.
who has been duty elected Exalted Ruler of this Lodge ;
also Brothers , who have been duly elected
(naming the positions to which each has been elected).
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brothers, do you accept the
positions to which you have been elected ?
All—We do,
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Grand Esquire, have
you examined the brothers and ascertained whether they
are qualified to hold the positions to which they have
been elected ?
Grand Esquire—I have.
Grand Exalted Ruler—My brothers, before investing
you with the insignia of office, you will be required to
take upon yourself a solemn obligation to properly per¬
form the duties of the same. Are you willing to take
such an oath ?
All—We are.
Grand Exalted Ruler—Then take your positions at
the altar, kneeling upon both knees, both hands resting
upon the Bible. You will pronounce your name in full '
and repeat after me.
• • • •
OATH OF OFFICE.
I, , in the presence of a Supreme Being and
this Lodge of Elks, do solemnly promise and swear to
conform with and maintain the Constitution, statutes,,
rules, regulations and objects of the Grand Lodge of the
Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the
World, and those of Lodge, No of the same.
• I also promise and swear to practice the virtues of
Charity, Justice and Brotherly Love, and with Fidelity
INSTALLATION.
8l
perform the duties of (naming positions) to the best of
my ability, and as far as lies in my power, and may a
Supreme Power help me and keep me steadfast as an offi¬
cer of this Order. Amen.
All—Amen.
•
Grand Exalted Ruler—Brother Grand Esquire, invest
the Exalted Ruler with his jewel and regalia, and now
conduct him to a position at my right hand.
You will now invest the other officers with their pro¬
per jewels and conduct them to their several stations.
This order will be obeyed, except in the case of the Tiler, who will re*
mnin at the altar. He will be addressed by the Grand Exalted Ruler thus:)
CHARGE TO TILER.
Brother Tiler, I now address myself to you, previous
to charging the other officers, for the purpose of more
firmly impressing on your mind the importance of your
trust.
You are placed at the o'uter gate as a tried and trusty
sentinel, and on the strict and careful performance of your
duty will depend to a great extent the safety of your Lodge.
You are the first to receive the candidate for admis¬
sion, the first to welcome the visiting brother ; therefore,
my brother, impress the candidate by your actions with
the dignity of the Order, while to the visitor let your greet¬
ing convince him that he is indeed with brothers.
Be circumspect and careful in all your actions, for
upon you the Lodge must rely in many matters for the
protection of its interests. Much of the success of a Lodge
depends upon the Tiler. We are confident you appreciate
this, or the Lodge would not have selected you to fill so
82
INSTALLATION,
important a position. You will now be conducted to your
station. Grand Esquire, conduct the Tiler to his station.
(The Secretary and Treasurer will be addressed together, thus:)
CHARGE TO SECRETARY AND TREASURER.
Brothers Secretary and Treasurer, I need scarcely
enumerate your duties; they are plainly laid before you
in the Constitution and statutes of the Grand Lodge and
your own By-Laws ; nor need I endeavor to impress upon
your minds the importance of your trust, for your brothers
have testified by their votes their belief in your integrity
and business qualifications. See then, my brothers, that
their good opinion may never have cause to change.
CHARGE TO ESTEEMED LECTURING KNIGHT.
Brother Esteemed Lecturing Knight, your duty is to
expound the principles and explain the intent of the Or¬
der, and to endeavor to inculcate the principles of Broth¬
erly Love. As this is one of our fundamental principles,
and upon its observance so much depends, your position
as a guide and monitor cannot be underestimated. If
you, by your conduct, act as an exemplar of the theory,
your own Lodge and the Order at large will be the gainer.
CHARGE TO ESTEEMED LOYAL KNIGHT.
Brother Esteemed Loyal Knight, you are required to
fill the positions of your superior officers, should any be
absent; it becomes, therefore, your duty to be proficient
in both the ritual and laws governing the Order. You are
also to prosecute all just charges, doing your utmost to
have all abuses, if there be any, properly corrected. Be
therefore, the representative of Justice—but the Justice
INSTALLATION.
83
that in a fraternal organization inclines to mercy, and
which writes the faults of our brothers on the sand, their
virtues on the tablets of love and memory.
CHARGE TO ESTEEMED LEADING KNIGHT.
Brother Esteemed Leading Knight, your position is of
the utmost importance, as you may not only at any mo¬
ment be called upon to preside over the deliberations of
the Lodge, but you are the representative of the great
principle of the Order, Charity. From your chair, my
brother, properly should be presented all petitions for aid
for needy or distressed brothers, and you must use every
exertion to see the cause of sorrow and suffering removed.
Let the motto of your position be constantly exemplified
in thought, word and action.
[During the charges the Grand Esquire takes his position beside officers
addressed.]
CHARGE TO EXALTED RULER.
Brother Exalted Ruler, you are placed by the choice
of your brothers as presiding officer of this Lodge. No
higher compliment could be offered you, for it evidences
that the brothers consider you pre-eminent, not only in
business capacity, but in Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love
and Fidelity.
My Brother, it is your duty to see that these grand
objects are ever kept in view by the brothers, and their
deliberations and your decisions governed by them.
I now, sir, present you with the Constitution and Stat¬
utes of the Grand Lodge and the By-Laws of your own
Lodge, which you have sworn to maintain. These are
the rules of action, which must govern you and become
the bulwark of the Lodge's existence.
84
INSTALLATION.
I now present you the charter (or dispensation) granted
by the Grand Lodge of the improved Benevolent and Pro¬
tective Order of Elks of the World, empowering
Lodge, No , to confer the Degree of the Order in
conformity with the Constitution and objects thereof.
The Charter you will consider your most sacred charge; .
guard it as evidence of the trust reposed in you, and trans¬
fer it to your successor at the expiration of your term of
office as the most sacred and precious possession of the
Lodge.
And lastly, I present you the gavel, the emblem of
power. This you are to use with firmness and decision
for the best interest of the Lodge and Order at large."
May you be guided by wisdom and discretion, and the
restraining influences of Charity, Justice and Brotherly
Love prompt you to rule with Fidelity.
And now, my brothers, let us in solemn procession
acknowledge allegience to the present Exalted Ruler.
Brother Grand Esquire, you will form the Lodge in
marching order.
[Organ—March.
[The brothers will then form on the left of the Grand Esquire and
march twice around the room, saluting the Exalted Ruler with the only
sign of the Order. After all the brothers have saluted, the Exalted Ruler
will seat the Lodge with the gavel, which concludes the service proper.
Grand Exalted Ruler—And now, in the name of and
by the authority of the Grand Lodge of the Improved
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World,
I do hereby declare the officers of Lodge, No
duly installed and until their successors are elected.
INDEX.
PAGE.
Closing Ceremonies 40-41
Dedication of Elks' Rest 62-69
•Dedication of Hall or Building 52-61
Diagram of Lodge 7
Funeral Service (Session of Sorrow) 42-46
General Directions! 4
Honors to Grand Lodge Officers 5
How to Organize a Lodge 75—76
Initiation Ceremonies (Secular Session) 16-39
Initiation Instructions 15
Installation Ceremonies 63-66
Institution, form of 74-84
Instructions for Officers 4-6
Laying of Corner Stone 70-74
Memorial Service (Sacred Session) 47-51
Officers of Subordinate Lodge 3
Opening Ceremonies (Secular Session) 9-13
Order of Business 8
Properties 14
iQuestion Book, form of 3