About Us
Welcome to Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538!
Chartered in 1922, Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 has been a proud part of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks for over a century. Located in the heart of California’s Central Coast, our lodge is built on a strong tradition of community service, fellowship, and patriotic values.
We are a vibrant and active lodge dedicated to serving our community through charitable efforts, youth programs, veterans’ support, and civic involvement. Whether it’s hosting community events, awarding scholarships, supporting local nonprofits, or honoring our nation’s heroes, we are always working to make a positive impact.
With over 3600 members, our lodge is one of the most active in the region. We invite you to visit, get involved, and experience the camaraderie and purpose that define our Elks family.
Lodge History
Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538
Chartered July 5, 1922
The Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 was officially chartered on July 5, 1922, becoming part of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America (BPOE). Since its founding, our lodge has stood as a cornerstone of community involvement, charity, and fellowship on California’s Central Coast.
In its earliest days, the lodge met in downtown Santa Maria, bringing together civic-minded individuals who were committed to serving others and strengthening our local community. As membership and community involvement grew, so did our physical presence, eventually moving to our current location at 1309 N. Bradley Road, a spacious and welcoming facility that has become a hub for events, meals, meetings, and charitable work.
The Birth of a Local Tradition: The Elks Rodeo
In 1944, Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 launched what would become one of the community’s most beloved annual events: the Elks Rodeo and Parade. The first event was known as the “Elks Recreational Foundation Benefit Wild West Show and Racing Meet,” and was held in partnership with the Santa Maria Valley Roping Club. That inaugural rodeo featured bronc riding, calf roping, and a mounted parade that captured the spirit of the West and the heart of the community.
Over the decades, the Elks Rodeo has grown into a nationally recognized event that draws thousands of visitors every year. Volunteers from across the region, many of them Elk’s members, work behind the scenes to make this event a continued success. The rodeo stands today as a proud tradition reflecting our lodge’s enduring spirit of service and celebration.
A Taste of Santa Maria: Barbecue and Fellowship
Our lodge is also proud to be part of another cherished local tradition: Santa Maria-style barbecue. Originating with 19th-century ranchers, this cooking style features seasoned meats over red oak and served with pinquito beans and fresh salsa.
Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 honors this heritage with our famous indoor red-oak-fired barbecue pits and weekly “Cook Your Own” steak nights every Friday, open to members and guests. It’s more than a meal; it’s a time to gather, share stories, and celebrate the bonds of our Elks family.
Giving Back to Our Community
For over 100 years, Lodge #1538 has been dedicated to supporting our local youth, veterans, and those in need. Through scholarships, community grants, youth programs, patriotic observances, and charitable outreach, we remain true to our Elks motto:
“Elks Care – Elks Share.”
In 2017, the lodge and its nonprofit partner, Elks Recreation Inc., were honored with the Spirit of Santa Maria Award by the Santa Maria City Council, recognizing decades of meaningful service and impact.
A Legacy That Lives On
Today, the Santa Maria Elks Lodge #1538 continues to grow in both membership and mission. We proudly carry on the traditions of our founders, while welcoming new members into a brotherhood rooted in charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity.
Whether you’re visiting, volunteering, or looking to become a member, we invite you to experience all that our lodge has to offer.