The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America is one of the oldest and largest fraternal organizations in the country. Since its inception in 1868, the Order of Elks has grown to include nearly 1.2 million men and women in almost 2,200 communities.

The BPO Elks is committed to the ideals of charity and patriotism. Nothing is more important than their work with the country's youth. The efforts of the Elks on behalf of the young--in Scouting and scholarships, sponsoring athletic and artistic endeavors, youth camps, and drug awareness programs--sow the seeds of accomplishment and commitment that benefit the nation.

Through the years, the Elks have been responsible for aiding the men, women, and children whose lives have been affected by extraordinary circumstances. No matter the cause of the disaster--torrential rains that led to heavy flooding, explosions in mines, earthquakes, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes, epidemics of various illnesses, and tidal waves--the Elks have been among the first organizations to lend a helping hand in troubled times.

The Order made a pledge in 1946 that "So long as there are veterans , the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them." In each of the 172 VA Medical Centers there is an Elk committee at work. Literally, thousands of Elks and their families give generously of their time, energy and resources so that the lives of our ill and aging veterans will be enhanced.

From the generous hearts of Elks members whose willingness to share, whose prudent long-term planning, and whose time devoted to serve--for free and with enthusiasm--infuses the Order with an exuberant and enduring expression of the true volunteer spirit.

Royal Oak Lodge #1523 was instituted on May 4, 1926 by Detroit Lodge #34. The Lodge was first located at 108 S. Main (above what was formerly Hilinger's Ace Hardware). The Lodge has moved twice since then, most recently being in December 1998.

Royal Oak has long been known as the "friendliest Lodge in the East District". We were Division 3 "All American Lodge" in 1993 - 94 and were State and National Award Winners in the Elks National Foundation. We have hosted the District, State, and Regional Hoop Shoot Contests.

We also sponsor Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, the Boys and Girls Club of South Oakland County, baseball, softball, soccer, and hockey teams in the Royal Oak Youth Leagues.