Historic Fraternal Lodges Grants

Indiana Landmarks, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the state's historic architecture, administers the Historic Fraternal Lodges Grant Program as part of its mission to support local preservation efforts. The organization focuses on safeguarding buildings that are historically and culturally significant, especially those at risk due to neglect or lack of resources. This grant program specifically targets historic fraternal lodges in Indiana, which were once central to community life and built by organizations like the Masons, Elks, Odd Fellows, and Knights of Pythias. Due to declining participation in fraternal orders and the aging of their memberships, many such lodges now face deterioration or abandonment. Recognizing the urgency, Indiana Landmarks launched this program to offer financial assistance for both lodges still in use and those no longer functioning as meeting spaces but that retain historical value. The goal is to preserve these iconic structures by providing resources for rehabilitation and planning. The grant supports two types of activities. Rehabilitation grants offer up to $5,000 for projects that directly preserve the physical structure, such as roof repair or façade stabilization, but do not include landscaping or non-structural elements. Planning grants provide up to $2,000 for activities such as feasibility studies and historic designation efforts. Both grant types require a 1:1 match, and funding may reimburse already-completed or ongoing work. To be eligible, properties must be historic fraternal lodges located in Indiana that are listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or within a historic district. Applicants must submit historical context for the building and are encouraged to consult their local Indiana Landmarks regional office. Grant recipients must be nonprofit organizations (e.g., 501(c)(3), 501(c)(8), or 501(c)(10)) or municipal governments, and they must become members of Indiana Landmarks prior to receiving funds. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed quarterly. All submissions must be sent via email to Mark Dollase. Award notifications are issued within a month following the quarterly review. Grant recipients are expected to acknowledge Indiana Landmarks in all project materials, display provided signage at the project site, and submit periodic progress updates. They must also share documentation such as photos, research materials, and media generated during the project. Assistance with application questions is available directly through Indiana Landmarks by email or phone.

Consult regional office; provide strong historical justification; prepare visuals and become a member before applying.