The Torrington Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) #372 is part of an order founded in 1868. Torrington was issued its official Charter in May 1898. Nationally, membership is nearly a million and the Torrington lodge has nearly 1,600 members.

Our philosophy and mission can be summed up in four words: “Elks Care, Elks Share.” You’ll see Elks in our community helping to support local charities, holding events for and visiting our veterans, and sponsoring youth events such as a drug awareness poster and essay contest, Hoop Shoot Contest, Soccer Shootout Kids, Fishing Derby and much more.

Our lodge is located on Litchfield Street on the former site of the Hungerford Home. After construction of the lodge, a dedication ceremony and formal opening took place on February 16, 1916. In 2004, the Torrington Elks completed renovations on the ballroom, foyer and front of the building. This, along with other structural improvements completed recently, make us the finest facility of its kind in Litchfield County, perhaps all of Connecticut. Weddings, receptions, reunions and other large gatherings are our specialty.

In 1965, the Torrington Elks purchased 35 acres known as Goodwin’s Pond. Since then, additional land was purchased and it forms what is now a 57-acre site. Known as the Elks Pond, members enjoy swimming, fishing and other activities.

At the heart of our organization, is a belief in supporting local charities. Some of the charities and nonprofit agencies we support include the Friendly Hands Food Bank, Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, Northwest Y, Christmas Village, D.A.R.E., Susan B. Anthony Project, Torrington Youth Soccer, Nutmeg Ballet, and many others. We also support numerous events and urge members to volunteer.

The Torrington Lodge also has annual holiday events such as our Christmas Dinner, Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, Mother’s Day Brunch, Father’s Day Breakfast, and Flag Day ceremony. Our lounge is open weeknights and weekends. Members can come and just relax with fellow Elks and their guests or take part in one our many activities such as scotch bowling night, horse racing and variety of entertainment. We also offer a golf league and bowling league.

For more information on the various programs offered by the Torrington BPOE #372, check our Programs.