More than 70,000 Elks served our country during World War I. More than 1,000 of them lost their lives during the struggle. After the war, the Order recognized its duty to honor those individuals.

The matter was referred to the Elks War Relief Commission, which after extensive research and discussion, declared that a great monument would be the best way to honor our nation’s veterans. Chicago was chosen as a site because the size and importance of the city would ensure that the building would not lose its distinctiveness or reputation over time.

Once plans were under way, there was work to be done. The Order demonstrated its high esteem for our nation’s veterans by raising $2.5 million to pay for the new building. Through a contest, the Elks chose Egerton Swarthout from New York as the architect for the new structure. To this day, the memorial building remains his masterpiece amidst an accomplished career.

The first cornerstone was laid in June 1924, with a ceremony and an address by then-Grand Exalted Ruler Bruce A. Campbell. In 1926, as the principle event at the Grand Lodge convention, the Grand Lodge officers dedicated the building.

Although the building was initially dedicated to those who served in the first World War, this honor was later extended to include those who served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, the Persian Gulf, and other conflicts.

When developing the concept of a National Veterans Memorial, the Elks War Relief Commission recommended, “That the suggested building be made definitely monumental and memorial in character; that the architectural design be so stately and beautiful… that the heart of every Elk who contemplates it will be thrilled with pride.” During a recent visit to the Memorial Building James M. McQuillan, endorsed candidate for Grand Exalted Ruler remarked, “Every time I walk through this building, it gives me the chills.” The Commission accomplished its goal.

In 1990, the Elks voted to restore their National Headquarters and Veterans Memorial Building. The Elks raised more than $4.5 million for this project. The Elks National Foundation also established an additional reserve fund in 2001-02 for future renovation projects. This year, the Elks National Foundation granted $484,770 to help support the maintenance of the Elks Memorial Building. In addition, the Trustees approved a grant of $250,000 to the reserve fund for special maintenance projects. Since 1991, the Elks National Foundation has given $4,367,212.06 to help maintain and restore the Memorial Building.

(This story was compiled from information from The Elks Veterans Memorial book, authorized by the Grand Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America and published under the supervision of the Elks National Memorial and Publication Commission, 1990. For more information, visit www.elks.org/memorial.)

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