LIMA, Ohio — The Lima Elks has been part of the community since the 1800s, and its longtime home at the corner of North and West streets has served as its base since the mid-1900s.
But with rising upkeep costs and declining membership, the club is leaving the historic building that has hosted countless events and memories.
“This building here — 31,000 square feet, we have three floors. Through the course of the ’70s and ’80s, on any given holiday or Christmas time, you could come in here and find every floor full with members having a good time, dining, listening to music,” said John Zerante, trustee chairman of the Lima Elks. “So it’s kind of bittersweet, if you will, to leave this history.”
The Elks are relocating to a smaller space just down the street at 215 W. Market St. The new location falls within Lima’s DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) district, allowing for outdoor dining and easier access to downtown events.
