Symbol of pride, vigilance, endurance, and strength
Native Americans used elk as a symbol. Women were thought to be protected by elk, who would lead them home if they were kidnapped by enemies. Elks were employed as a symbol for warrior civilizations and were regarded as symbols of bravery. The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks was founded in 1868 as a secret society. It started off as a New York City social club. Originally, the group was only made up of white men, and it was only later that persons of color and women were allowed. Many charities, youth initiatives, and veterans benefit from the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks. An elk is overlaid on the face of a clock that reads 11:00 as its symbol. Above the elk, there is a crimson star. Charles Richardson, one of the founding members, was responsible with the eleven o’clock significance. He was born in England and raised there before moving to New York City. At 11:00 a.m. in England, individuals would raise their glasses in commemoration of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Following the conflict, a curfew was imposed that began at 11:00 p.m. The eleventh hour also connotes the start of a fight. It is also the Hour of Recollection, during which members of the club who have passed away are remembered. While a red star represents communism, communists were excluded from the organization. The elk denotes pride, strength, and guardianship, while the star represents unification.
The Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks of the World was founded in 1897 as a result of the original Elk society’s refusal to allow people of color. An elk running over the globe is their symbol. Throughout the world, this emblem represents protection, endurance, and guardianship. B.F. Howard and Arthur J. Riggs started this organization. They sought to start a branch of the Elks Society, but they were turned down because they were black. Instead, they founded their own community, which is still operating today. They have 500 million members in 1500 lodges around the world. In addition, charities, youth initiatives, and veterans will benefit from this order. They serve their communities spiritually and financially. A ring with an elk on it is worn by members. A five-pointed star is above the Elk, encircled by Roman numerals that resemble a clock face. Under the Elk, the initials BPOE appear. The star is a symbol of greatness, divine protection, and divine guidance.