Since our origin on October 12, 1894, the Waterloo Elks Lodge 290 has established itself as a charitable organization throughout our long and prestigious history. By incorporating the four stations of fidelity, brotherly love, charity and justice, the Waterloo Elks have played and will continue to play an active role in the community and Elkdom. As a nonprofit, all money we raise supports veterans, youth and community. The Elks purchased this property in 1917 from the Julian Richards estate. The building was one of the finest oil residences in the city, being well-constructed and large enough to accommodate the lodge temporarily. The building was remodeled to accommodate a ballroom; members bar and card room and billiard room. In the basement there were four bowling alleys, a gymnasium, grill, kitchen and serving pantry, along with showers, lockers and the boiler rooms. The building was dedicated with a cornerstone in 1924, the year the Elks started using it as their Lodge.