In 1902, Abe Maas, who would open and develop the Maas Brothers department store, was elected the first Exalted Leader of Tampa Elks Lodge #708. The Elk’s Club was founded in 1868 as a fraternal social organization.  In 1906, the membership purchased the residence of charter member Dr. D.H. Stebbins on the corner of Florida Ave and Madison St. By 1914, they constructed the 4-story structure pictured here, replete with meeting rooms, a bowling alley, and a roof-top garden. Being next to city hall and the county courthouse, it became a meeting place for power brokers and politicos. 

By 1960, the building had fallen into disrepair and was demolished in 1962. Tampa Federal Savings and Loan began constructing their 5-floor, $650,00 building on the site that same year. They nicknamed the development Colonial Corner, a nod to the architectural design. In 1981, Tampa Federal merged with Glendale Federal Savings and Loan. When Glendale merged with Barnett Bank, the property sat vacant, and a Canadian parking business acquired a permit to demolish the structure. Instead, the building was sold and after renovation, leased to Northern Trust Bank.

 © Chip Weiner. All rights reserved