As Elks we’re asked to contribute our time, effort and even money for the betterment of those around us. You can imagine my surprise, and even joy when Janis and I visited the Elks National Memorial in Chicago the other day. The building, which was erected in 1924 as a monument to our veterans, is especially cogent in today’s world. It was a source of enormous pride when it was constructed and I found it to be not only impressive, but a true expression of the love and dedication we feel for the nation’s military service personnel, past and present. This was the first stop on our tour of Chicago and it made a lasting impression. I never realized how big the structure is nor how magnificent the inside of the rotunda is. The monument is 100 ft. tall and the rotunda is 80 ft. across. Stained glass windows line the inside walls and reliefs are painted everywhere depicting various scenes from WWI and representations of the charges delivered by the chair officers during initiation. Four large, gold statues representing the four principles of the Order stand guard around the rotunda and artifacts from the wars and conflicts our service personnel have been involved in over the decades are displayed all around the rotunda as well. The ceremonial Office of the Grand Exalted Ruler is also in the building. The national offices of the BPO Elks USA are also located there. Downstairs there are several large frames hanging on the walls with thousands of lodge pins and other artifacts of Elks lodges throughout history. Although the monument is a fairly quiet place, it is a living museum and a tribute to all Elks for their continued perseverance in the job of making our veterans one of the main concerns of our Order. The monument is really breathtaking and every Elk should visit it if they are in Chicago. In fact, you may want to use that as an excuse just to come to Chicago. I promise you, it’s worth the trip. .
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- Jeff
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