History of Paterson B.P.O.E. Elks Lodge No. 60

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (B.P.O.E.) Paterson Lodge No. 60 is one of New Jersey’s oldest and most distinguished fraternal organizations. Chartered in 1888, it has served the City of Paterson and surrounding communities for well over a century through charitable work, civic leadership, veterans’ programs, youth activities, and community service.

Founding

Although the lodge officially received its charter in 1888, its organization began in 1887 through the efforts of three prominent Paterson citizens:

  • Hon. Harry Stone

  • Hon. David Boyle

  • Hon. James McCormick, a noted baseball figure

These men consulted with New York Lodge No. 1 and Newark Lodge No. 21, resulting in the institution of Paterson Lodge No. 60 on January 30, 1887. The charter followed the next year with an original membership of 33 Elks.

Growth and Community Leadership

Paterson was America’s leading silk manufacturing city during the late nineteenth century, and Lodge No. 60 quickly attracted many of the city’s:

Civic Contributions

  • industrialists

  • merchants

  • attorneys

  • physicians

  • elected officials

  • business leaders

The lodge became one of Paterson’s leading civic organizations, sponsoring charitable drives, patriotic observances, scholarship programs, and assistance for families in need.

Before constructing the Ellison Street clubhouse, the lodge met in rented quarters on Main Street. During the dedication of Elk’s Rest on May 28, 1907, members assembled at the lodge headquarters on Main Street before marching to the cemetery.

Elk’s Rest

One of the lodge’s proudest accomplishments was establishing Elk’s Rest at Laurel Grove Memorial Park in Totowa.

Dedicated on May 28, 1907, Elk’s Rest became the permanent burial section for deceased members of the lodge. Contemporary accounts describe the dedication as a major civic celebration, with decorated streets, large crowds, and distinguished Elks officials from throughout New Jersey attending the ceremony. It remains an important tradition of Lodge No. 60 today.

Throughout the twentieth century, Paterson Elks No. 60 became known for its support of:

  • scholarships for local students

  • veterans’ organizations

  • youth athletic programs

  • scouting

  • handicapped children’s charities

  • Christmas food and toy drives

  • patriotic ceremonies

  • community improvement projects

The lodge has also participated in the Elks National Foundation’s charitable programs, supporting veterans, medical research, youth leadership, and educational grants.

90th Anniversary

In 1978, Paterson Lodge celebrated its 90th Anniversary.

Congressman William J. Hughes entered a tribute into the Congressional Record, praising the lodge’s long history of service. At that time:

  • membership totaled approximately 700

  • it was recognized as one of Paterson’s oldest surviving fraternal organizations

  • it was noted for decades of charitable work benefiting children, veterans, and local residents.

Moving to Elmwood Park

Like many urban fraternal organizations, changing demographics and membership trends eventually led the lodge to relocate.

Today the organization is officially known as the Elmwood Park–Paterson Elks Lodge No. 60, located at 192 Market Street, Elmwood Park, New Jersey. While its physical home changed, it has retained its original charter number and its historic connection to Paterson. The lodge continues to sponsor youth sports, veterans’ programs, scholarships, drug-awareness education, and numerous charitable activities.

Timeline

Year

Event

1887

Lodge organized on January 30

1888

Charter granted as Paterson Lodge No. 60

1907

Elk’s Rest dedicated at Laurel Grove Cemetery

1920s–1960s

Major civic and charitable influence in Paterson

1978

90th Anniversary recognized in the Congressional Record

Present

Operates as Elmwood Park–Paterson Elks Lodge No. 60

Legacy

For nearly 140 years, Paterson Elks Lodge No. 60 has reflected the history of the city itself. Generations of members have contributed to civic improvement, philanthropy, and public service while preserving traditions such as the annual Memorial Day ceremonies at Elk’s Rest and the Elks’ famous “11 O’Clock Toast.” Its continued operation under the original charter makes it one of New Jersey’s oldest continuously active Elks lodges.