Elks Temple

After moving from building to building over the years, the Elks Lodge began to see a large increase in membership, so it was decided that a new, large clubhouse was needed in order to satisfy the increasing need for more space. In late June of 1905, construction began on the new home of the Elks Lodge on River Street that was to be designed by Port Huron architect, George Harvey. On June 26, 1906, there was a special "turning over the keys" ceremony to dedicate the new $30,000 building. The Manistee Daily News reported: "With two bands the Elks marched early in the evening from their old home in the Winkler Block to the new hall. Arriving their fireworks were used to mark the victorious entry into the new domain. At eleven o'clock lunch was served and the festivities lasted until half past two."