Orlando Elks Lodge #1079 History

Our lodge was instituted on June 28, 1907. Yes, that is 1907 so we are now over one hundred (100) years young. The original installing officer was H.M. Hund, DDGER from Tampa Lodge 708. The first Exhalted Ruler was W.R. O'Neal, a prominent insurance agent. Temporary space was rented from the Odd Fellows, but later Trustees leased space from the YMCA for $40 per month. A lot located at Central and Court Streets was purchased from Mr. Charles Rock for $1,250. Soon after that, a contract for construction was let for a Lodge building that would cost $8,500. (a picture of this building is on display in our lobby) The corner stone from that building is on display in the Orange County Historical Society Museum. The building was sold to Orange County and our Lodge purchased the home of S. Walter Howe at 409 East Central Avenue overlooking Lake Eola.

Dave Sholtz was the first Grand Exalted Ruler from Florida serving the years 1936-1937. Brother Sholtz was also Governor of Florida from 1933-1937. In 1932 Brother Harry Miller presented Grand Exalted Sholtz the deed to a hotel in Umatilla, Florida, which became our present Florida Elks Children's Hospital. On September 25, 1946, Exalted Ruler Alf A. Hazen appointed the first Tangerine Bowl Committee. Members were: Lawrence Sattariano, Hanley Pogue, Cracker Jim of Sentinel, C.W. McDaniel, Glen C. Cole, James J. Hacket, Frank Carboy, and Nick Serros. The first game was between Catawba College and Maryville College. Each team received $3,500 and the Elks Children's Hospital received a donation of $2,736.75.

A major event occurred in 1951. That year marked the beginning of Orlando Does Drove #66, our wonderful ladies organization that has supported our Lodge year after year.

In 1959, Charles Klotz was Boy Scout Chairman, and Dr. John Heitz was Scout Master. Through their efforts, the first handicapped boy scout troop in the United States was formed.

1969 was a disaster for our Lodge, for it was in May of that year that fire destroyed much of our home at 409 East Central Avenue. After much searching, property was purchased at 12 North Primrose, and has been the site of our present home for 33 years. Dick Branham was Exalted Ruler of the Lodge in 1972 when the building was completed and on the momentous occasion of the opening, the Grand Exalted Ruler, Gene Furnace, was here for the dedication. The Lodge was opened with a Gala Celebration to the music of Sammy Kaye. The Lodge prospered and our officers brought national recognition by winning the National Ritual Contest in 1973-74. Our Lodge was also honored that same year when Brother Al Ehrlich was elected State President. This was the second time that the Orlando Lodge #1079 would be honored with a member as State President, the other being C.M. Broadwater in 1908.

This bit of nostalgia was collected from numerous sources and reflects some of our most fond memories of the 99 years devoted to good works and fellowship.