Stumped on a Crossword Clue? Discover the Animal-Inspired Fraternal Order!

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Sure! The crossword clue ‘fraternal order named for an animal’ refers to a popular organization known as the Elks. The Elks are a fraternal order in the United States, founded in 1868. To understand why the answer is ‘ELKS’, let’s break it down into three sections: the meaning behind the name, the history of the organization, and its significance today.

1. Meaning behind the name:

The organization’s full name is the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE). The term ‘Elks’ refers to the majestic animal known as the elk, also called wapiti, which is one of the largest species of deer in the world. They are known for their strong and noble presence, often associated with grace, stability, and loyalty. By adopting the name ‘Elks’, this fraternal order aims to embody these qualities in its organization and members.

2. History of the organization:

The Elks were founded on February 16, 1868, in New York City by a group of stage actors and entertainers. Initially, the organization served as a social club for professionals involved in the performing arts. However, over time, its focus shifted towards charitable work and community service.

The Elks have developed a three-tier system within their organization, consisting of local lodges, state associations, and the national body. Local lodges are the grassroots level of the organization, where members come together for meetings and events. State associations coordinate activities between lodges within a specific state, ensuring a unified approach to community involvement. The national body, headquartered in Chicago, provides support and guidance to all the lodges and state associations.

3. Significance today:

The Elks have made a significant impact on communities across the United States. One of their primary goals is to promote charity and give back to society. They raise funds and perform countless hours of volunteer work to support various causes, such as veterans’ programs, youth activities, scholarships, drug awareness campaigns, and more.

In addition to charity work, the Elks foster a strong sense of camaraderie and bonding among their members. They organize social activities, sports events, and rituals that reinforce their values of fraternalism, patriotism, and dedication to serving others.

In conclusion, the crossword clue ‘fraternal order named for an animal’ can be solved with the answer ‘ELKS’. The Elks are an influential fraternal organization in the United States, named after the elk for its strong and noble qualities. Throughout their history, the Elks have prioritized charity, community service, and a sense of brotherhood among their members. They continue to make a positive impact on society, supporting various causes and fostering camaraderie.