Aspen Elks Student Veteran Scholarship

Aspen Elks Lodge #224 was established on December 27, 1891, when the DDGER of Denver Lodge #17 initiated twenty-two members into the newly formed Lodge. Following the initiation, Lodge officers were elected, and Charles R. Bell became the first Exalted Ruler. Dues were set at $2.00 per month, with a $20.00 initiation fee.

The Lodge’s first meeting place was on Durant Street in a building that had formerly served as a jail. In 1892, the Lodge moved to Armory Hall, which is now the current City Hall. That same year marked a turning point for Aspen with the demonetization of silver, which led to an economic decline and the end of mining as the primary industry. In 1904, the Elks relocated to their present location, though the building could not be purchased outright until January 1916.

In 1921, a Community Welfare Committee was appointed to represent the Lodge in matters benefiting the broader community. Today, this tradition continues through the work of Trustees, the Youth Activities Committee, the Scholarship Committee, and other specialized committees.

The Lodge’s Scholarship Program highlights its growth in charitable efforts. In 1974, Exalted Ruler Charles “Skip” Ela awarded the first Elks scholarship of $1,000 to a student. By 2004, under Exalted Ruler Brian O’Neil, the Lodge presented 18 scholarships totaling $79,000—an increase of $78,000 in just 30 years.

Patriotism has long been central to the Lodge’s mission. The Aspen Elks continue this tradition through support of veterans and disabled veterans, as well as the recent renovation of Ute Cemetery, which included restoration of Civil War veterans’ gravesites and active participation in Memorial and Veterans Day activities.

Today, Aspen Lodge #224 remains actively engaged with the community through senior citizen luncheons, sponsorship of youth programs—both athletic and academic—and involvement in a wide range of local initiatives. The Lodge has always played an important role in Aspen, and its commitment to the community is stronger than ever.