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Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World

[[image - black and white photograph of Benjamin Franklin Howard]]
[[caption]] BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HOWARD
Founder and First Grand Exalted Ruler
1899-1909 [[/caption]]

A Brief History of the Elks 

Largest fraternal organization in the world, the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World was founded in 1898 by Attorney Benjamin Franklin Howard in Cincinnati, Ohio. He became the first Grand Exalted Ruler of the First Lodge, Cincinnati Lodge No. 1.

Shortly after the founding, the ritual of the I.B.P.O.E. of W. was copyrighted by Arthur J. Riggs on September 18, 1898. The following year, in June, 1899, the first charter and articles of incorporation were granted.

There have been only twelve Grand Exalted Rulers since the inception of this powerful organization. J. Finley Wilson holding the reigns for 31 years, from 1922 to 1953. 

The purpose of the organization is: "That the welfare and happiness of its members be promoted and enhanced, that nobleness of soul and goodness of heart be cultivated, that the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity be inculcated, that its members and families be assisted and protected, that the spirit of patriotism be enlivened and exalted."

The Grand Temple was founded in 1902 by the late Dt. Emma V. Kelley and to date the entire organization boasts a membership of over 450,000 with Lodges and Temples in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, West Indies, Virgin Islands and Panama.