About Us: Reno Elks Lodge
Embracing Tradition, Fostering Community, and Building a Brighter Future Together
Learn about Reno Elks Lodge and experience the legacy, engage in meaningful activities, and our history of dedication towards making a positive impact within the community.
Building Stronger Communities Through Service and Brotherhood
This Fraternal Order was founded "To promote and practice the four cardinal virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its members; to quicken the spirit of American Patriotism and cultivate good fellowship."
ABOUT RENO ELKS LODGE #597
Strong Community Bonds
Dedicated Charitable Efforts
Rich Traditions Preserved
Welcoming Fellowship Environment
RENO ELKS LODGE #597 HISTORY
The Beginnings
The Reno Elks Lodge will turn 125 years old on June 30, 2025. Take a historical tour of Reno Lodge's long and glorious path in Elkdom and it's multitude of services to the community, state and nation.
• June 30, 1900: Reno Lodge #597 receives charter by BPOE Grand Lodge • December 19, 1909: First "Uncle Dan's Charity Dinner" is held. • February 26, 1921: Elks Home survives a small fire. • December 14, 1930: Attendance at "Uncle Dan's Dinner" reaches 400 • June 30, 1950: Reno Elks celebrate the 50th birthday of the Lodge • February 5, 1957: Reno Elks home destroyed in explosion and fire • February 7, 1960: Ground breaking ceremonies are held for the Lodge at 597 Kumle Lane • February 5, 1961: New Lodge is dedicated on land donated by Raymond I. "Pappy" Smith • January 9, 1987: Reno Elks almost lost Lodge due to financial difficulties • January 29, 1987; Reno Elks Lodge re-opened • July 19, 1987: Fire damages Elks Lodge • June 14, 1998: Elks bring traveling Vietnam Wall War Memorial to Reno for Flag Day • June 30, 2000: Reno Elks Celebrate 100th birthday • November 10, 2001: 92nd "Uncle Dan's Charity Dinner" is held • July 5, 2002: Grand Lodge Convention comes to Reno • July 5, 2005: Grand Lodge Convention comes to Reno • August 28, 2011: Dedication Ceremonies are held for the newly remodeled Lodge • August 1, 2012: Reno Elks win Grand Lodge Western Conference Ritual Competition • July 29, 2013: Grand Lodge Convention comes to Reno • July 5, 2017: Grand Lodge Convention comes to Reno • March 4, 2020: Lodge closes due to worldwide COVID-19 pandemic • June 11, 2020: Lodge partially reopens with prescribed protocols amidst COVID-19 pandemic • April 29, 2021: Reno hosts 92nd Annual NSEA Convention as Lodge functions return • June 1, 2021: Lodge totally reopens as COVID-19 restrictions are eased throughout the state. • March 26, 2022: Reno Lodge installs first woman Exalted Ruler in its history • May 28, 2022: Swimming Pool reopened for the season with newly renovated pool deck, shade structure and the "NEW" cabanas.