On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress took a break from writing the Articles of Confederation and passed a resolution stating that “the flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white,” and that “the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”
In July of 1908, the Elks’ Grand Lodge provided for the annual nationwide observance of Flag Day on the 14th of June each year, making it mandatory for each local Lodge in the Order. June 14 was officially established as Flag Day by a proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916. Flag Day was not a national observance until 1949—President Harry Truman, himself an Elk member, was inspired by his Lodge in Independence Missouri, to sign an act of Congress that dedicated June 14 to the symbol of our country.
On June 14th of each year, Elk members across the country take time to honor the beauty and significance of the American Flag through by conducting its Flag Day ceremony, which is both informative and inspiring, and a fitting tribute to the stars and stripes. This year, the 20 Elk Lodges across the State of Maine joined them, and the event was also conducted by the officers of the Maine Elks Association, led by State President Albert Ingraham of the Wells Elks Lodge #2738, and was held at the Augusta Elks Lodge #964.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is a patriotic American organization that supports our nation’s youth, veterans, charities, and communities. There are over 1900 Elk Lodges across the country, with over 750,000 men and women members. Since its inception, the Elks have donated over $8 Billion Dollars in charitable giving through grants, scholarships, and volunteerism. Here in Maine, the Elks of this state donate over $5 Million Dollars each year through individual contributions to various causes; one of which is the State’s Major Project: The Maine Children’s Cancer Program.
The Maine Elks Association consists of 20 Elk Lodges from York to Presque Isle and is over 10,000 members strong. The association brings Elk Lodges and their members together to provide better communication and coordination to help improve the Elks service and commitment to their communities. If you believe in America, helping others, and would like more information on membership, visit our membership page.