Elks Lodge 543 is a association or organization in Nelsonville, OH. Phone: (740) 753-1697. Average rating is 4.4 stars from 22 reviews. Website: https://www.elks.org/lodges/ContactUs.cfm?LodgeNumber=0543.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemNelsonville, OH Elks Lodge #543
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Group of people enjoying time together at Elks Lodge 543.
4.4 22 reviews

Where Nelsonville Comes Together to Serve

Elks Lodge 543 on Hocking Street: community-first since the charter, open-hearted always.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

A group of friends enjoying time together at Elks Lodge 543.
A group of friends enjoying time together at Elks Lodge 543.

On Hocking Street in Nelsonville, Ohio, Lodge 543 has built something quietly remarkable: a members club that feels less like a private retreat and more like the town's living room. Visitors who stop in after events like the Tunnel to Towers 5K consistently remark on the warmth they find here, clean surroundings, friendly servers, and a crowd that makes strangers feel like regulars before the first drink is poured.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has always measured itself by what it gives back, and Lodge 543 takes that seriously. From scholarship programs and veterans support to local fundraisers that keep Nelsonville neighborhoods stronger, the work done through this lodge reaches far beyond its walls on Hocking Street.

Step inside and you'll find a comfortable, unpretentious space with genuine personality. The servers know your name faster than you'd expect, the atmosphere carries decades of good-natured fellowship, and the sense that you belong here arrives almost immediately. That's not an accident. The members of Lodge 543 have been cultivating exactly that feeling for a long time.

What We Offer

Lodge 543 offers members and their guests a full social hall for gatherings, a bar and dining area serving satisfying lunches and casual meals, and regular event hosting for community runs, charity dinners, and civic celebrations. The kitchen turns out honest, approachable food in a setting that never tries too hard.

Beyond the building itself, membership connects you to BPOE's national network of charitable programs: youth scholarships, Veterans assistance, Hoop Shoot competitions for kids, and drug awareness initiatives that make a measurable difference in Athens County and across Ohio. Lodge meetings keep members engaged in both the fraternal tradition and the ongoing community work.

Private event rental, volunteer opportunities, and participation in statewide Elks programs round out what membership here actually means. Whether you're a longtime Elk or someone curious about joining, the door at 53 Hocking St is easier to open than most people expect.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“Lovely lunch after Tunnel to Towers 5K! Nice, clean, pleasant place- super friendly people!!”

— TheNancy2525

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 years ago
"Although it's a members club, this organization is fantastic when it comes to "community involvement." Kind of old fashion but its clean, comfortable, great personality by your server and happy, friendly members who will welcome you with open arms. If you live in or near Nelsonville, Ohio consider a 🇺🇸membership🇺🇸 The picture is the grand poo paw during the Christmas Ugly Sweater night. Meet Shawna and she's a sweetheat. The other pics are just friends "having fun.""
— NJ Sonick
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 years ago
"Lovely lunch after Tunnel to Towers 5K! Nice, clean, pleasant place- super friendly people!!"
— TheNancy2525
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 years ago
"A most welcoming place... where you always feel at home ❣️"
— margarita nguyen
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 years ago
"Wonderful fraternal organization, I highly recommend joining."
— Dave Andrews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 years ago
"Love the auctions that they have there"
— debra wachenschwanz

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member to visit Elks Lodge 543?

Most Elks Lodges are members-only or require a member to sign you in as a guest. Contact Lodge 543 directly through the Elks national website to ask about guest policies, upcoming open events, or how to begin the membership process.

How do I become a member of Lodge 543?

To join, you must be a U.S. citizen, believe in God, and be sponsored by a current member. Reach out via the Elks national contact page for Lodge 0543 to connect with a member who can walk you through the application.

Does Lodge 543 host events open to the public?

Yes, Lodge 543 participates in and hosts community events that are open to the public, including post-race gatherings like the Tunnel to Towers 5K lunch. Follow local Nelsonville event listings or contact the lodge for an upcoming schedule.

Where exactly is Elks Lodge 543 located?

The lodge is at 53 Hocking Street in Nelsonville, Ohio 45764, in Athens County. It's a straightforward address in town and easy to find.

What charitable programs does Lodge 543 support?

Through the national BPOE organization, Lodge 543 supports veterans services, youth scholarships, the Hoop Shoot basketball program, and drug awareness education. Local members also organize and participate in community fundraisers specific to the Nelsonville area.

Is there food and drink available at the lodge?

Yes. The lodge has a bar and dining area where members and guests can enjoy casual meals and drinks. Reviewers specifically mention the lunch service as a pleasant experience with friendly, attentive staff.

Can Lodge 543 host a private event?

The social hall at Lodge 543 can be made available for private events. Contact the lodge through the Elks national website to discuss availability, capacity, and any requirements for booking the space.

61° Clear Nelsonville
Tue 87° 59°
Wed 87° 70°
Thu 88° 68°
Fri 93° 68°
Sat 86° 69°
Sun 92° 67°
Mon 98° 72°
The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

Get In Touch

Ready to get started? Contact us today!

Map showing Elks Lodge 543 Open in Maps
Call Us (740) 753-1697
Visit Website www.elks.org
Get Directions 53 Hocking St, Nelsonville, OH 45764, USA
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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

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