Elk's Lodge BPOE No. 2, building in Pennsylvania, United States
Elk's Lodge BPOE No. 2 is a 13-story lodge on North Broad Street in Philadelphia built between 1922 and 1925. The lower floors contained meeting rooms, a restaurant, ballrooms, and auditoria for gatherings, while upper floors provided hotel rooms for members and guests.
The lodge was built between 1922 and 1925, replacing a smaller four-story predecessor on Arch Street that reflected the organization's rapid expansion. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 but was demolished in 1992 by Hahnemann University.
The lodge served as a gathering place where community members attended dances, dinners, and celebrations that reinforced local bonds and social connections. Its role reflected how fraternal organizations shaped Philadelphia's civic life during the early 20th century.
The location on North Broad Street near Logan Square provided a central position in Philadelphia that was easily accessible by public transport. Since the building no longer exists, visitors today can only explore the site itself and imagine its historical presence on this busy street.
The lodge had close ties to local sports, as the Philadelphia Sphas basketball team played nearby and fans often stayed afterward for dances featuring live bands. This connection made it a cultural and sports hub that shaped Philadelphia's community life.
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