Some history of the Hillsboro Elks Lodge #1862
Read through the dedication guide below, provided by our own Richard Shipley from his father! It includes a detailed history, dedication, and community involvement of Hillsboro Lodge No. 1862 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.
Lodge History and Founding
- Initiated in 1952 with 380 members, the largest at that time among 1,861 lodges.
- First Exalted Ruler was Art Scripture.
- Originally leased American Legion Hall for five years before building a new lodge.
- New lodge at 922 S.W. Walnut dedicated on March 22, 1958.
- Building cornerstone laid by Past Grand Exalted Ruler Frank Lonergan.
- Membership grew from 380 in 1952 to 1,400 in 1984 (and is around 1200 today).
- Helped establish Beaverton, Sherwood, Forest Grove lodges, and others.
- Purchased Orenco Woods Golf Course in 1969 and adjoining land for future development, which became the site of our current lodge!
- Sold the Orenco Woods golf course in 2007 to a developer, much of it later became Orenco Woods Nature Park.
Community and Benevolent Programs
- Focused on charity, youth activities, scholarships, and community service.
- Supported over 225,000 children through eye care, sports, scholarships, and safety programs.
- Organized community events like Christmas baskets and children’s theater.
Click the imaged below to see the original 1984 dedication pamphlet for our current lodge building.
