OCTOBER 3: ELKTOBERFEST · PUBLIC WELCOMEOCTOBER 30: HOWL-O-WEEN PARTYTHURSDAY MUSIC BINGO · 8 PMFRIDAY KARAOKE · 9 PMELKS CARE · ELKS SHARE

WELCOME HOME

Welcome to our Elks family.

A practical introduction to the history, traditions, service, and fellowship of Ferndale Lodge #1588.

THE ORDER OF ELKS

From the Jolly Corks to a nationwide force for good.

The organization began with a small group of entertainers known as the Jolly Corks and became the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks in 1868. Today, Lodges across the country unite around four cardinal principles and a shared commitment to neighbors in need.

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4CARDINAL PRINCIPLES$12M+DONATED BY FERNDALE SINCE 1931

OUR FERNDALE STORY

Serving this community since 1931.

Ferndale Lodge #1588 was installed on March 28, 1931, with help from Detroit Lodge #34 and sponsors Pontiac #810 and Royal Oak #1523. In 1943, the Lodge moved into the former American State Bank building on Woodward Avenue—our home to this day.

Ferndale Elks also helped launch one of Michigan’s best-known traditions: the Woodward Dream Cruise, established in 1995 by Lodge member Nelson House.

Historic American State Bank building on Woodward Avenue, later home of Ferndale Elks Lodge 1588
American State Bank · built 1923
Ferndale Elks Lodge 1588 building today
Ferndale Lodge #1588 · today

ELKS TRADITIONS

The Four Cardinal Principles

Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity guide how Elks serve and treat one another.

The Hour of Eleven

At 11 PM, Elks pause to remember absent members. It is a lasting reminder that an Elk is never forgotten.

Welcome Home

Every Lodge is a home for visiting Elks, and every member becomes part of a nationwide family.

Service and Fellowship

Social connection and community service work together—good friends doing meaningful good.

Ferndale Elks members at the Michigan Elks Summer Recovery Weekend

MICHIGAN ELKS

Part of something bigger.

The Michigan Elks Association, established in 1904, connects Lodges across the state. Michigan programs include the Major Project, which supports children with disabilities, and the Gold Key Scholarship Fund, which helps students with disabilities pursue education after high school.

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A YEAR AT #1588

Traditions that bring us together

Our calendar blends fraternal observances, family activities, charitable service, and good fellowship.

Winter

Veterans Christmas Tree, food assistance, Kids Christmas Party, Christmas Auction, and New Year’s Eve.

Spring

St. Patrick’s Day, Easter Egg Hunt, Mother’s and Father’s Day services, and the Memorial Day Parade.

Summer

Ferndale Pride, Flag Day, Woodward Dream Cruise, Lodge outings, and statewide fellowship.

Fall

Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Potluck, holiday food projects, Hoop Shoot, and seasonal community events.

YOUR NEXT STEP

Turn membership into involvement.

Attend an event, volunteer for a project, or join a committee. The Lodge becomes yours when you take part.

Explore committees ↗Join the volunteer list