Where we came from…
Built in 1915
Inspired by Beaux Arts Classicism, architect Frank C. Clark lead the design for the Medford Elks building in 1915. Upon completion, Medford Sun, the local newspaper at the time considered the building “of Greek Corinthian architecture…Massive, substantial and magnificent.” It was gladly received by the community as a peak of social and economic development.
1920’s
With the success of the Elks Lodge and growing membership, the Elks renovate the building to include an additional billiards room to the north and removal of the southern porch for a mechanical room and expanded main floor gathering space.
1980 Remodel
Plans were drawn in the 80's to update the Elks Lodge with modern amenities such as an elevator, ADA accessibility, and improved kitchen and dining areas. A portion of these improvements were completed but reducing membership over the next decades and lack of upkeep of the building resulted in the eventual closure of the Medford Elks Lodge and landed in the building on Restore Oregon's Most Endangered Places top 10 list.
Where we’re going…
Current Remodel
In 2018, an investment group purchased the building with the goal to help restore the building to its prior place as a main pillar of the Medford community. The group recognizes the beauty in the original structure of the building and hopes to restore and retain the historical character while updating the building to meet modern business needs. With its location on Central at the entrance to historic downtown, The Lodge will serve as a welcome to people seeking to enjoy all the amenities downtown has to offer. The Lodge will be a community space where local businesses can thrive and grow.
“Medford Elks Lodge BPOE has additional local significance not only for its important association with the Fraternal Order of Elks, but as the sole remnant of the once imposing triumvirate of corner-facing classical inspired structures that formed the political and social hub in Medford prior to World World II.” -The National Register nomination
History derived from the ‘United States Department of the Interior Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service National Register of Historic Places Inventory’ form. Photography credits to the Southern Oregon Historical Society and Laurie Passey Photography.