For more than a century, Mountain City Elks Lodge #382 has stood as a cornerstone of Frederick’s African American community. Located at 173 W. All Saints Street, the lodge has been home to generations of fellowship, service, and history. This month, members and supporters gathered to celebrate the completion of a multi-year restoration effort that modernized the historic building. With support from the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development (DED), which applies on behalf of organizations to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for project funding, the Elks have achieved an unprecedented milestone in preserving their legacy for years to come.
The Restoration Project
Since 2021, the Elks Lodge has undergone a $1.16 million transformation to revitalize its historic structure. The project included complete renovations of the first and second floors, a fully updated kitchen, upgraded lighting and security systems, and the addition of new ADA-accessible entryways to improve community access. The work was supported in part by two City of Frederick GROW Grants — one in 2021 for $5,000 and another in 2024 for $3,000 — along with significant public investment through DHCD programs, safeguarding the lodge’s historic legacy while enhancing the building’s functionality to meet present and future needs.
The celebration was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by city, county, and state officials, community leaders, and lodge members. Among the honored guests was former State Senator Ron Young, who initiated government support for the project during his time in office, and Garland Thomas from DHCD, who helped oversee the state’s involvement. Their presence, alongside representatives from Senator Alsobrooks, Senator Van Hollen, and state delegates highlighted the collaboration across multiple levels of government that made the project possible.
While the Elks and their partners rejoiced in this moment of achievement, they emphasized that the work is not over. Additional fundraising is still underway to complete remaining improvements and ensure for generations to come.
Learn more about other major development projects at www.businessinfrederick.com/153/Learn.