Fountain of Youth Elk's Lodge

The Heart of a Movement

In 1964, St. Augustine became a critical battleground in the fight for civil rights. The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) brought its campaign to the city, and the Elks Rest building became a central hub for the movement. The Fountain of Youth Elk's Lodge was more than just a meeting place, it was also a training center and a sanctuary for local and out-of-town activists. The building provided a safe space for people to organize, strategize, and find support in a city that was deeply resistant to desegregation. It served as a vital base for protesters who were facing down violent opposition and hostile crowds. The events that unfolded here—the training sessions, the passionate discussions, and the unwavering resolve of those who gathered—played a crucial role in bringing national attention to the injustices in St. Augustine and ultimately contributed to the passage of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

The history of the Fountain of Youth Elk's Lodge is not only preserved in memory but is also physically marked by a red historical marker. This marker, funded by civil rights pioneer Hank Thomas, one of the original Freedom Riders, stands as a permanent reminder of the site's significance. It serves as a focal point if you want to learn about this pivotal period in American history.

But the story of this historical site doesn’t end with its history. The building has undergone extensive renovations with a new purpose: to be re-established as a community center. The vision for this revitalized space is to serve both children and the elderly, offering mentor programs, educational events, and a variety of community services. This renovation project beautifully bridges the past and the present, transforming a historical site of struggle into a place of hope and empowerment.

Visiting

A visit to the Fountain of Youth Elk's Lodge offers a profound opportunity for reflection. It's a key stop on any tour of St. Augustine's civil rights history, enabling you to walk the same ground where history was made. You can reflect on the bravery of the activists and the enduring spirit of the community.