City of Bristol Honors Bristol Elks on 120th Anniversary

On July 14, 2026, members of Bristol Lodge of Elks No. 1010 attended the Bristol City Council meeting, where Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu presented the Lodge with an official proclamation recognizing its 120th anniversary. Exalted Ruler Caroline D. Martin accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Lodge.

Joining the Exalted Ruler for this historic occasion were Past Exalted Rulers J. Yuschak, Steve Chase and Thomas Middleton; Esteemed Lecturing Knight Mellissa Dombroski; Trustee Bill Cathcart; and Lodge member Jane Wright.

The proclamation honored Bristol Lodge No. 1010 for 120 years of service to veterans, young people, families in need and the greater Bristol community. Since its founding in 1906, generations of Bristol Elks have continued the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity through scholarships, patriotic programs, charitable outreach and community partnerships.

The evening also revealed a remarkable connection between the Lodge’s history and the Mayor’s family. The Lodge’s original records identify Thomas A. Tracy as Bristol Lodge No. 1010’s first Exalted Ruler. Mayor Zoppo-Sassu recognized Tracy as her great-uncle, creating a direct family connection between the Lodge’s founding in 1906 and the Mayor who honored its 120th anniversary in 2026.

Bristol Lodge No. 1010 extends its sincere appreciation to Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu, the Bristol City Council and the City of Bristol for this meaningful recognition. The proclamation celebrates not only the Lodge’s history, but also the members whose continued service keeps that legacy alive today.

Past Exalted Rulers J. Yuschak, Steve Chase and Thomas Middleton with Exalted Ruler Caroline D. Martin holding Bristol Lodge No. 1010's 120th Anniversary Proclamation in the Pine Room
From left: J. Yuschak, PER; Steve Chase, PER; Exalted Ruler Caroline D. Martin holding the 120th Anniversary Proclamation; and Thomas Middleton, PER, in the Pine Room beneath the portraits of the Lodge’s Past Exalted Rulers.
Bristol Lodge No. 1010 representatives attending the City Council proclamation presentation
Bristol Lodge representatives attend the historic City Council presentation.
Members of Bristol Lodge of Elks No. 1010 with the City of Bristol 120th Anniversary Proclamation
Lodge members commemorate 120 years of service to Bristol and the surrounding communities.