10/21/2026
A Brotherhood Beyond Borders: Visiting Colorado Elks Lodges
Kayla and Ian Bergman recently had the privilege of visiting two incredible Elks lodges in Colorado: Lodge #607 in Idaho Springs and Lodge #557 in Central City. Both buildings were rich in history, and we were fortunate to receive gracious, welcoming tours that gave us a deeper appreciation for the traditions, history, and fellowship that make our Elks family so special.
Our first stop was Idaho Springs Lodge #607, a beautiful three-story building where the members welcomed us with open arms from the moment we arrived. The lodge featured a beautiful awning overlooking the meeting room, along with cases filled with memorabilia that showcased its history and traditions.
One especially interesting piece of history was the stagecoach rock displayed outside the building. A fellow member shared that this was the original stagecoach rock from Idaho Springs. After being in the city’s possession for a period of time, the lodge was fortunate enough to regain ownership and bring this unique piece of local history back to its property. What a wonderful way to preserve a piece of the community’s past!
Our next stop was Central City Lodge #557, and this lodge was truly something special. Its meeting room has remained untouched since 1904, with even the original carpet still in place and in spectacular condition! Stepping into that room felt like stepping back in time.
One feature that particularly stood out was the lodge’s absent member chair, positioned directly in front of the Exalted Ruler’s podium. The symbolism of that chair was powerful, serving as a meaningful reminder of the members who are no longer with us but whose presence and contributions will never be forgotten.
Lodge #557 also had its own museum room, thoughtfully assembled by its bartenders. It was a beautiful tribute to the history of both the lodge and the surrounding area, filled with stories and artifacts that help keep the past alive for future generations.
Beyond the incredible buildings and historical treasures, there was another detail that really caught our attention: both lodges operate with 100% volunteer bartenders! This gave us an even greater appreciation for the blessings we have at West Plains Elks Lodge #2418. We are fortunate not only to have the ability to compensate our bartenders for their hard work and service, but also to have so many wonderful people who help make our lodge what it is.
These visits were a wonderful reminder that the Elks are about so much more than the building we gather in. We are part of a much larger family, connected by fellowship, service, tradition, and a shared commitment to our communities.
If you have never ventured out to visit another Elks lodge, we highly encourage you to do so! You will be welcomed like family, and you never know what fascinating history you might discover, what stories you might hear, or what lifelong friendships you might make along the way.
A heartfelt thank-you to our friends at Idaho Springs Lodge #607 and Central City Lodge #557 for their warm hospitality and for sharing their beautiful lodges and histories with us. We are grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow Elks and proud to be part of a brotherhood and sisterhood that reaches far beyond our own hometown.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks: different lodges, one family! 🦌
