FROM THE LEADING KNIGHT> > "Our whole influence in life is determined by the good deeds we do....."> > The 140 year history of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks > abounds with charitable deeds. > Far too many to list in a newsletter. Some were as small, sending food left> over from the meetings to help feed the unemployed, collecting used> clothing and individual cash contributions sent to assist widows or orphans > of deceased members. Other were monumental, providing aid and relief on a national scale such as the Jamestown, Pennsylvania flood of 1889, the Galveston, Texas tidal> wave of 1905 or the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco, California.> All charitable acts performed on a local or national level were equally> important showing clearly that the Order was thinking not only of> themselves but all Americans who needed only to exhibit a genuine need of > assistance. The Elks had thus far been accustomed to doing their charitable works> quietly, almost behind the scenes. But the onset of World War I would> thrust our Brotherhood to the forefront world-wide. Aiding the sick and> wounded on the European battlefields.> In 1917, Grand Lodge session. Boston Lodge #36 proposed a resolution> pledging "the best we have to offer in service at the front and in resources> and fidelity at home today, and always. Uniontown, Pennsylvania #370> motioned that one million dollars be appropriated. Such fund to be> contributed by the Subordinate Lodges and be known as the War Relief> Fund. This money financed and equipped two base hospitals for the United> States Army in France and saved countless American lives. Over 70,000> Elks served in uniform more than 1,000 making the ultimate sacrifice. In 1918, the Elks constructed, equipped and gave to the U.S. government> a 700 bed rehab/ reconstruction hospital in Boston. It remained filled to> capacity for 3 years. > “…the influence of a good deed, honestly and promptly performed will continue forever”
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