Glastonbury Lodge No. 2202 found no difficulty in organizing, despite the fact that Glastonbury was already well settled with Lodge representation of other orders. Through the faithful and diligent guidance of former East Hartford's Michael Kiro, PER, its progress was assured.
The Lodge's first meeting was held on October 19th, 1960 at the Grange Hall and since that initial meeting, we have found encouragement and satisfaction. Bill Colgan, Past Exalted Ruler of Bridgeport Lodge No. 36; Frank Gioielli of the former East Hartford No. 2063 and Frank Milardo had given the original members unfailing guidance since their inception. The second meeting will always be remembered because of the generosity of Brother Charles Rocci, whose doors were open to the new lodge's every need.
The organization period, chaired by Judge Walter Downes, brought to each
prospective member the acid test of sincerity. They came, stayed, and multiplied
through the worst storms in the State’s history. Lodge meetings were held in the
Grange Hall on Naubuc Avenue until 1964 when the Lodge began to rent the Polish
Home on Concord Street. Growth and activity continued, and in the spring of 1966
ground was broken for the construction of our present building by Brother
Charles Monzeglio. Completion of the building was celebrated by a New Year’s Eve
dance held on December 31st, 1966.
Also during this time, members of the Lodge were busy dismantling a tobacco shed
which had been donated. It needed to be transported from East Hartford, and the
present Pavilion was erected from the recovered material, which stands in the
field below the Lodge building. This outdoor area also provided entertainment
such as horseshoes, bocce ball, and shuffleboard. John and Andy Dondero were the
prime movers of this project.
Under the leadership of Joe Galka and Jack Leslie, our fine trap shoot facility
was built in 1967. In addition to the electrical clay pigeon firing system,
there is a paved firing line and a small lodge well equipped with a fireplace,
stove, and other necessities for comfort in hot or cold weather. Trap shooting
is a regular, as well as popular event on Sunday afternoons. This amenity is
also open to anyone in the community that wishes to participate.
Horse show grounds were constructed including show rings, jumps, and trails. Baylis Earle directed the operations of this feature, which hosted some of the largest shows in New England. Emphasis has now been shifted to cooperation with local pony clubs who utilize the extensive trails through our eighty acres of woods and fields.
A spring-fed fish pond was developed under the chairmanship of Dick Anderson.
In addition to providing recreation for our members, it has served for years as
the site of our Annual Handicapped Children’s Fishing Derby. Just before this
event the pond is well stocked, assuring that the youngsters have a memorable
day filled with fun and excitement. Swimming lessons were also provided for
members and their families throughout the summer.
Over the years the Glastonbury Elks has given their time and money freely and
enthusiastically on both a State and National basis.
Among our many proud works are:
Rocky Hill Veterans Home
Blinded Veterans Turkey Shoots
CT Conservation Education/Firearms Safety Program
Scholarship Programs
Connecticut Children’s Medical Center
American School for the Deaf
Glastonbury Volunteer Fire Department
American Red Cross
Town of Glastonbury Parks & Rec. Dept. Camp Sunrise Program:
Glastonbury Little League
sponsorship
Boy & Girl Scouts of America
Veterans National Service Commission
Glastonbury Social Services:
-
Food Drives
-
Fuel Bank Donations
Youth Drug Awareness Program
Youth Bicycle Safety Rodeo
Smoke Alarms for Seniors
Infant Car Seat Donations
Wheelchair Donations
Our facilities are also available at little or no cost to many local groups for
their activities. A sampling of these include:
V. F. W.
Boy Scouts
YMCA outings
Glastonbury Fire Department
Midget Football League Award Dinners
Rotary Club
Chamber of Commerce
Town of Glastonbury Employees
Local Churches
Music & Miracles, Inc.
The Lodge continues to carry on the original tradition of volunteering their
time to help the community. The members of the Lodge also find time to hold
events at which they, along with their families, can relax and enjoy themselves.
The members of the Lodge strive to perpetuate their motto, which states “never
criticize a volunteer”
The Volunteer
Although many people hold this job, there are never enough I fear.
The job I am referring to is that of a volunteer.
The job is quite satisfying, at least that’s what they say.
It must be the truth, because I know for a fact it’s certainly not the pay.
Their rewards will come much later, because from what I hear
There’s a special place in heaven for those who volunteer.
by Thomas Flanagan, PER (Member No.5)
Special thanks to the following:
Pictures and archives provided by
Bernard Burgan, PER
Anecdotal information shared by the Elders of the Lodge
So, Do You Want to Join the Elks?
To be eligible for membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks, you must be a citizen of the United States over the age of 21 who
believes in God.
You must be sponsored by a member of the Elks Lodge and reside in the
jurisdiction of the Lodge you wish to join. You also need two other Elks who
will be your co-sponsors. The Elk who proposes you for membership must
obtain a Membership Application from the Lodge Secretary.
After your proposer fills in the required portion, you will be given the
Application for Membership. Fill it in, following the instructions and
answering all questions. Return the completed application to the Lodge
Secretary.
Your application will be read at a regular Lodge meeting. It will then be
forwarded to the Investigating Committee, who will call you and set up a
time for you and your sponsor to meet with the committee so that they can
interview you.
After the interview is concluded, the committee will report to the Lodge
concerning your membership. The members will be given a notice not less than
10 days nor more than two months before the vote will be taken.
When the vote is concluded, you will be notified and asked to present
yourself and your spouse for indoctrination. During indoctrination, you will
learn more about the Order's programs and charities. You will also be told
during the program the date you will be initiated.
After initiation as an Elk, you can take part in all meetings and social
functions of the Lodge.
If for any reason your application is rejected, you cannot make
application for membership for six months from the date of rejection.
Use our handy online directory
to locate a Lodge near you. And be sure to
let us know how it turns out.
