Ohio F.O.P. Lodge #21

On October 21, 1935 the Fraternal Order of Police Lima Lodge #21, Inc. was chartered by the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio. Lodge 21 was formed by 24 members of the Lima Police Department. Many years later, the Deputies of the Allen County Sheriff’s Department were invited to join. Eventually, membership was opened to all full time law enforcement officers in Allen County.

The first members of Lodge 21 held their meetings at the Lima Police Department. They later moved to a garage located on St. Clair Avenue. In 1966 the Lodge moved to its current location, 750 W. Robb Avenue. The land on which the Lodge sits was donated by local businessman Ray Pangle Sr. In 1989, an addition was added to the original building. This more than doubled the size of the Lodge Hall.

In 1993, a long time dream of the membership was fulfilled when the Lima/Allen County Law Enforcement Memorial was constructed in front of the Lodge. This memorial was built to honor all law enforcement officers in Lima and Allen County, but especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the community they served.

In 2003, the “Scout House” was constructed on the west side of the property to meet the needs of Explorer Post 21. For many years, Lodge 21 has sponsored an Explorer Post. The “Scout House” was built with funds and labor donated by the Lodge and the general public, This building finally gives them a home of their own. It also is used by the Boy Scouts of America as the local outlet for scouting merchandise. The Explorers pay for the utilities and taxes on the building by working at various local events.

Today, the members of Lodge 21 represent 19 local, state and federal agencies. There are 295 active and retired members.

In 1943, George B. Quatman Lodge #8 of the Fraternal Order of Police Associates was granted a charter. Lodge 8 is made up of members of the community who share a common interest, that of supporting the members of the law enforcement community of Allen County, Ohio. For more information on how to join the ranks of the community that support local law enforcement, contact any of the officers listed on the FOPA # Officers page.