The Salem Elks surprised retired educator and local historian Frank Brinkerhoff with its Citizen of the Year Award on Sunday. Brinkerhoff had unknowingly been brought to the Elk’s for Sunday Chicken Dinner when Mike Hooe of the Elks made the announcement.
“We are very fortunate to have Frank Brinkerhoff working to preserve our past and improve our future. It is an honor and privilege for me to present the Elk’s Lodge Citizen of the Year to Frank Brinkerhoff.”
Brinkerhoff was honored for his 35 years in Education and his lifelong passion for preserving Salem’s history.
“I owe so much to the community. I really don’t think one needs to be rewarded for doing good.”
And Brinkerhoff isn’t done with his passion to preserve history yet.
“I want to get all of the things that I’ve collected over the years into the new museum. And I encourage everyone else to do the same.”
Brinkerhoff is a 1953 graduate of Salem High School. After serving in the Korean War, Brinkerhoff returned to Salem and spent 35 years in education including 16 years as a teacher, 15 years as Principal at Oak Park and then Hawthorn Grade School, and completed his career with six years as Assistant Regional Schools Superintendent.
The Citizen of the Year is the highest honor given out by the Elks and it can be given to a member or non-member.
