Past Exalted Ruler, Patrick Coyle with the encouragement from his wife and fellow Elk Nancy, started exploring the idea of starting a new Lodge in Fort Mill, SC. With the help of two friends and fellow Elks Michael Pierce and Thomas Oddi the process began. The goal was to obtain 100 signatures and applications from persons interested in joining the proposed Fort Mill Elks Lodge.

 

On November 17, 2009 the first public meeting was held at the American Legion to gauge a community interest. At these meetings various Elk dignitaries and members spoke about the Elks and its history to the many interested community members in attendance.  

 

Meetings were held every two weeks and on January 29, 2009 a letter requesting dispensation was written to then Grand Exalted Ruler Paul Helsel as the required 100 prospective members was obtained. Dispensation was granted and Past Grand Exalted Ruler Arthur H "Jack" Frost presided over the Institution.

 

The Fort Mill Elks Lodge was instituted March 29, 2009 at the Rock Hill Elks Lodge #1318 who was the sponsoring Lodge for Fort Mill.

 

The following individuals and organizations were Instrumental in the initial success of our Lodge:

Past Grand Exalted Ruler Paul Helsel

Past Grand Exalted Ruler Arthur H "Jack" Frost

Past State President Mickey Brackett

Past State President Melvin "Skip" McDole

Past State President Tim Boyette

Past State President Chuck Kormelink

John Barry PDD (CT),

Robbie Blackwell PDD ,

Penny Montgomery PDD,

Chris Coyle PER (CT),

Rock Hill Elks Lodge #1318,

Fort Mill American Legion Post #43,

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #9138

 

Thank you to all of you as members that continue to drive our success