Our Lodge at 4th Avenue & Nutmeg Street
If a “Quantum Leap” could be possible, It would be most interesting to leap back to the year 1890 and become an Elk with the founders of B.P.O.E. No. 168. What a thrill that would be. One can read the first edition of the minutes, which is still In the historical fi1e at the lodge, marvel at the hand written script, picture what was happening at that meeting when dignitaries from other lodges of Elkdom instituted San Diego Elks Lodge No. 168 and revel at the courage of these pioneers as they entered the gates of Elkdom.
To compose a complete history of the San Diego Lodge would require many volumes. The minutes from 1890 to 1990, which were very descriptive, especlal1y the first fifty years, filled 36 volumes. So, it is our intention to present a brief but thorough history of its being by sharing with you a series of happenings during those years.
In the beginning, it is important to know that the new group initiated into the order were made up of some of the area’s most important citizens. Looking around San Di ego, you will see these names still sprinkled on the business horizon. Of course, the most important name linked with the San Diego Lodge was the home of John Mason” Jack” Dodge, Its founder and first Exalted Ruler. His accomplishments as an Elk of 61 years would fill volumes, but the most noticeable one was the love expressed for him by all who had the good fortune to know him. In 1930, Jack was very ill, and not expected to live. In the minutes it stated that all the members present at the meeting gave of themselves with a special vigil of prayer. The miracle of prayer was answered as Jack lived until 1951 – age 97. Jack’s dreams were fulfilled as his lodge has grown from 28 founding members to today’s membership of approximately 800.
For the many years that followed founding of the lodge, the ladles entertained themselves but supported their spouses when asked. In April 1949, the San Diego Ladles of the Elks was formed by the ladles bridge group and through their bazaars and other fund raisers, have given substantially to help the brothers support their charities.
Everything in Elkdom has been accomplished through dedication and love of the order. This is certainly true when we read about the growth of Lodge No.168. Its financial problems In the beginning were compounded by a bank failure (California National Bank closed its doors in early 1892) which tied up all of the lodge’s funds. However, the brothers pulled together and in 1907 they built their own lodge building at 2nd and Broadway. Good fortune smiled upon them, and In 1930 they built a magnificent new home at 4th Avenue and Cedar Street. In 1938, because of a reversal in finances, it was necessary for them to vacate the property and lease quarters in their original home at 2nd and Broadway. It was indeed another rebirth, but experience and hard knocks had taught them how to survive. The reward for patience and endurance was realized in 1955 when the property on 4th Avenue at Nutmeg became their new home.
The memories of existence were imbedded In the minds of the survivors of the 1938 fiasco and “caution” became their middle name. Since that time, many attempts to sell and move have been proposed to the membership. Without a doubt, in the minds of a lot of the brothers, opportunities, especially n the real estate climate of today, have been lost. However, the Lodge building was almost 100 years old and was badly in need of substantial repairs. In the year 2000 the Lodge moved to its present address at the corner of Navajo Road and Jackson Drive. Since moving to our new location, the lodge has continued to grow and prosper.
The acts of giving and helping have been the “Charity Bylaws” of the San Diego Lodge for the past 135 years. The brothers and ladles have reached into their pockets millions of times to help the needy, the aged (one episode was recorded about the brothers pooling $10 between them to repair an old lady’s eyeglasses), the sick and handicapped children, the War Bond drives (one month in 1945 resulted in 2,061,400.40 In sales by the brothers), open house for veterans and servicemen, veterans Christmas parties and events throughout the year, annual benefits, charity shows consisting of operas, concerts, circus events, Elks’ hospitals, Red Cross and Salvation Army help, soldiers’ friend committees, Major project piggy banks, National Foundation and many others. The brothers voted, at one meeting In 1948, to donate $ 10,000 to 25 organizations In San Diego In the name of charity. In addition, millions of volunteer hours have been given by the San Diego Elks and their ladles.
With Jack Dodge In charge, It was no surprise that from the very first stage of development, the brothers, made up usually of their own group, entertained after lodge meetings and also for benefits for charity. This was a lodge which during Its first 59 years had their own “High Jinks” comedians, orchestra, chanters, quartets, baseball team, minstrels, bowling, billiards, golf, trap shooting, parades, rodeos, drill teams, plays, musical operas and concerts. The activities did not always stay at home, because excursions and visitations were no strangers to this lively group.
In the late 40’s and 50’s, the “tube” drew a lot of these fun lovers to its viewing screen and somewhat put an end to the jovial past and the Founders of Lodge No.168 knew It. We realize that in today’s modern world with population explosion, times and habits change, but the Order of Elks will remain the same because its creed of giving has been implanted in our hearts as a great institution pledged to charity.
We are very active in promoting the various programs of the Grand Lodge, in support of the Veterans of our Nation, our Flag and Country, as well as the children of our community, along with many other charitable endeavors.
We would like to extend an invitation to stop by and meet your new neighbors and learn more about the Elks and the good work that we do.