The good news was received on April 21, 1911 from Deputy
Grand Exalted Ruler W.W. Rowan that a charter had been granted
for the formation of a new lodge after groundwork had taken
place during the previous couple of years. The first meeting
was held May 24, 1911 in the old Delta opera house. Sixty-seven
members were present.
1911 was a busy year for the lodge’s membership. The
main objective was to decide upon a location for the permanent
lodge. The search began on June 4 and did not take long. Only
a month later the committee recommends the purchase of four
lots at the southwest corner of Sixth and Main. The trustees
agreed, approving the outlay of $6,000 for the purchase. The
traditions we know today had begun.
By 1917, the membership of the lodge had grown to 263. That
year a $500 liberty bond was purchased. The records also indicate
that a $1.00 donation was made for every member of the lodge
to the War Relief Committee. Another tradition - that of support
for American troops and for the cause of freedom - became
established.
The lodge grew and prospered, and, by 1924, there were 437
active members. It was time to think about building a permanent
lodge home. The trustees allocated the amount of $60,000 for
its building and furnishing. The cornerstone was laid November
25, 1925, and the new lodge was ready for occupancy the following
summer. A remodeling project was undertaken in 1952 at a cost
of $25,000.
Today’s members still mount the same stone steps and
feel the traditions of brotherhood that this building has
represented for the past 93 years.
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In 1952, the lodge’s first donation to
Laradon Hall of $1.00 per member was made. This is another
ongoing tradition that continues to the present day.
During the years of World War II, the lodge once again supported
the Elks War Commission with a $1.00 per member donation.
In 1945, a resolution was passed extending help to all returning
servicemen. During the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, this
Lodge sent phone cards to active troops in both combat areas.
And in 2003, we held a luncheon honoring all veterans who have
served in the armed forces.
The 1950s teen dances at the lodge were a huge hit with the
younger generation. They danced every Friday night to bands
such as Jimmy Dorsey, Tiny Hill, and Blue Baron. Other youth
activities were sponsored throughout the years. After
the establishment of the Elks National Foundation in 1928,
scholarships were awarded locally and at the national level.
Delta Lodge continues to support all youth programs in its
community. This lodge has donated generously to ENF through
the years, again establishing the tradition of helping the
youth of Delta County.
The Lodge celebrated its 50th anniversary on April 21, 1961
and is currently laying initial plans for the 100th anniversary
in 2011.
Our Lodge continues to follow the traditions established
throughout the preceding years and upholding the principals
to which the Order is dedicated.
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