Moosehaven

One wonderful thing about being a Lady of the Moose is after we have given back to our community and to our organization, our organization gives back to us. Moosehaven has provided thousands of Moose members and their spouses with a secure, relaxed, and enjoyable retirement experience. The residents enjoy a beautiful community without the burdens of home maintenance. Health care is comprehensive, and transportation is always available as are a plethora of social interaction and activities. the "City of Contentment," 70 beautiful acres on the shore of the broad St. Johns River just 15 miles south of Jacksonville, Florida. Who wouldn't want to retire in sunny Florida?

Founded in 1922 by the Moose fraternal organization, Supreme Secretary Rodney H. Brandon purchased property on the banks of the St. Johns River in Orange Park, FL consisting of eight acres  with a four-story hotel structure, containing approximately 65 rooms. The original concept was to “organize the residents so that they might help each other and help themselves, and provide from their own energy the major part of the cost of their keep.”

Moosehaven was dedicated on October 3, 1922, and the first 20 residents arrived (mostly from Mooseheart) on November 1. During the first six months of operation, some 54 residents were admitted. By 1926, there were 144 residents. Known initially as the “City of Opportunity”, Moosehaven residents performed all of their own work and operated a successful dairy and farm. At various times, as many as 500 Moose members have resided at Moosehaven.

Today, more than 300 Moose members reside on Moosehaven’s 70 acres. Instead of doing farm work as they did in the early years, they pursue new enjoyable experiences every day! Many have “Sunshine” jobs that help keep the community running smoothly—answering phones, driving vans and buses, delivering mail, running the stores, sewing and more. Their jobs are only a small part of the active life they already enjoy with each other.