Visit the Elks National Memorial

Elk statue at Elks National Memorial entrance in Chicago, Illinois I had walked past the Elks National Memorial for almost a year, admiring the elks flanking the gated entrance and wondering what was inside.  Finally, as part of my birthday week celebration (yes, week!), I decided to take a tour.

Located in Chicago at 2750 North Lakeview Avenue, the Elks National Memorial is open from 12 noon to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, from April 15 through November 15.  Admission is free.

Elks National Memorial Grand Reception Hall in Chicago, Illinois During a docent-led tour, I learned the history of the building and toured the Rotunda and Grand Reception Hall.

In 1920, the Elks organization decided to create a memorial to pay tribute to members who fought and died during World War I.  They chose New York architect Egerton Swarthout’s design due to its beautifully distinctive yet practical style.  New York’s Hegeman-Harris Company was selected as the builder.  Dedication took place on July 14, 1926.

The beautiful marble throughout the Rotunda captured my attention immediately.  I was also drawn to the gilded bronze sculptures created by James Earle Fraser.  Each of the four sculptures–Brotherly Love, Fidelity, Justice, and Charity–represents one of the principles followed by the Elks.

Elks National Memorial Grand Reception Hall chandelier in Chicago, Illinois Stunning murals by Eugene Francis Savage and Edwin Howland Blashfield can be found in the Rotunda and Grand Reception Hall.  Looking closely reveals intricate details.  There are so many figures, animals, and objects in each scene that I could have spent a great deal of time examining each mural.  I can definitely see visiting again.

After the tour, the docent suggested a self-guided tour of the basement area.  The basement had miniature versions of the floats created by the Elks for the Tournament of Roses Rose Parade held in Pasadena, California.  How fun!  I have always loved watching the Rose Parade, so seeing these models brought back exciting memories as I thought of past parades.

Elks National Memorial Grand Reception Hall wood paneling in Chicago, Illinois Returning to the main floor, I decided to explore the smaller meeting rooms.  One of the meeting rooms had pictures of all the Grand Exalted Rulers, who are essentially the CEOs at the national level of the organization.  It was interesting to note how the hairstyles, clothing, and glasses have changed over the years.  One thing that has not changed is that each Grand Exalted Ruler has been a man.

For people who belong to the Elks organization or have family members in the organization, there are interesting state and local memorabilia in main floor and basement display cases.  If unable to visit in person, take an online tour at the Elks National Memorial website.