Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian: Founder of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks

In November 1867, a charismatic English performer arrived in New York City seeking opportunity. His name was Charles Algernon Sidney Vivian, born October 22, 1842, the son of a clergyman. Instead of following the ministry, Vivian pursued the theater and became a successful entertainer in London before crossing the Atlantic.

New York’s Blue Laws required businesses to close on Sundays, leaving actors and entertainers with little to do. Under Vivian’s leadership, a group of thespians began gathering for fellowship and amusement. To ensure refreshments were always available, they formed a loose social club. They called themselves the Jolly Corks — a playful name inspired by one of Vivian’s stage tricks.

Everything changed in December 1867 when a member of the group died, leaving his wife and children without support. The Jolly Corks realized their fellowship needed purpose. On February 16, 1868, they formally established the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and elected Charles Vivian as its first leader.

From Social Club to National Brotherhood

The new Order combined camaraderie with charity. Benefit performances and social activities increased its popularity. Membership grew rapidly. Traveling members carried the word to other cities, and requests for Lodges outside New York soon followed.

To meet this demand, the Elks secured a charter from the New York State Legislature authorizing the creation of a Grand Lodge empowered to establish local Lodges nationwide. On March 10, 1871, the founders received the first local charter as New York Lodge No. 1.

The Founder Controversy

Internal conflict soon emerged. A faction led by George F. McDonald sought to restrict membership to “legitimate actors.” Vivian opposed limiting the Order’s reach. While he was away on tour, the opposing group expelled him and several supporters.

This action later proved controversial and was ultimately recognized as improper. In 1897, a formal inquiry confirmed Charles Vivian’s rightful place as founder of the Elks.

Vivian’s Final Years

After his expulsion, Vivian continued performing across the country. With his wife, actress Imogene Holbrook, he established a repertoire theater in Leadville, Colorado. He died of pneumonia on March 20, 1880.

In 1889, the Elks moved his remains to Mt. Hope Cemetery in Boston, Massachusetts. The Order provided financial support to Mrs. Vivian until her death in 1931 — a quiet acknowledgment of the man who began it all.

A Legacy of Patriotism and Service

The legacy of Charles Vivian lives on in the charitable and patriotic work of the Elks.

On June 14, 1907, the Order held a Flag Day observance honoring the American flag. Decades later, President Harry S. Truman proclaimed June 14 as a national day of observance, formalizing a tradition the Elks had championed.

During World War I, the Elks funded and equipped two field hospitals in France, built community facilities for servicemen, and supported rehabilitation efforts for wounded soldiers. Their educational loans to returning veterans foreshadowed what later became known as the GI Bill.

When World War II began, the Elks were the only civilian organization asked to assist in recruiting construction workers for the military — a task completed ahead of schedule. They also donated hundreds of thousands of books to the Merchant Marines.

During the Korean War, the Elks donated over half a million pints of blood.

During the Vietnam War, they funded recreation facilities and purchased air-conditioning units for wounded service members recovering in Pacific hospitals.

When Operation Desert Storm began, Lodges organized letter-writing campaigns and homecoming support efforts for deployed troops.

Enduring Purpose

From a small Sunday gathering of entertainers to a nationwide charitable organization, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has remained committed to charity, patriotism, and community service.

The story is long. The work is often quiet. The impact is lasting.

As long as there are those in need, the Elks continue the mission Charles Vivian began in 1868.