Today in Wheeling History: April 15--A major building campaign for Wheeling's YWCA was launched, leading to the construction of its administration and residence hall (1912).
The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) of Wheeling has stood as a symbol of empowerment and community support since its establishment on April 9, 1906. Created to provide a safe haven and essential resources for women, the organization addressed their social, educational, and physical needs. Mrs. John B. Garden played a key role as temporary chairperson during the founding meeting, with Mrs. Robert J. Reed elected as the first organizing president. Among the initial board of directors were notable figures such as Mrs. E.A. Hildreth and Miss Emily Shephard, who contributed significantly to the organization's foundation.
Initially operating out of rented spaces on Chapline Street and later in the Schenk building on Market Street, the YWCA quickly grew in scope. Recognizing the need for a permanent location, a transformative building campaign began on April 15, 1912. Mrs. Alexander Young led the effort as financial chairperson, securing funds for an administration building and residence hall. Completed by 1915, this structure became a hub for physical fitness, career development, and racial integration programs. The Blue Triangle Branch, established in 1921, notably supported African American women and girls, championing racial equality even amidst segregation. Integration of the YWCA by 1956 marked another milestone in its history.
Today, the YWCA Wheeling continues its mission of empowering women and advocating for social justice, honoring the legacy of its founders.
To learn more: Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling WV (https://tinyurl.com/k2zw2scj) (https://tinyurl.com/4zh4uxy9); Wheeling Daily Register (https://tinyurl.com/89x5efh6), Wheeling Intelligencer (https://tinyurl.com/29rhdc4n), YWCA Wheeling (https://tinyurl.com/55u9cxnh)
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV
The Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) of Wheeling has stood as a symbol of empowerment and community support since its establishment on April 9, 1906. Created to provide a safe haven and essential resources for women, the organization addressed their social, educational, and physical needs. Mrs. John B. Garden played a key role as temporary chairperson during the founding meeting, with Mrs. Robert J. Reed elected as the first organizing president. Among the initial board of directors were notable figures such as Mrs. E.A. Hildreth and Miss Emily Shephard, who contributed significantly to the organization's foundation.
Initially operating out of rented spaces on Chapline Street and later in the Schenk building on Market Street, the YWCA quickly grew in scope. Recognizing the need for a permanent location, a transformative building campaign began on April 15, 1912. Mrs. Alexander Young led the effort as financial chairperson, securing funds for an administration building and residence hall. Completed by 1915, this structure became a hub for physical fitness, career development, and racial integration programs. The Blue Triangle Branch, established in 1921, notably supported African American women and girls, championing racial equality even amidst segregation. Integration of the YWCA by 1956 marked another milestone in its history.
Today, the YWCA Wheeling continues its mission of empowering women and advocating for social justice, honoring the legacy of its founders.
To learn more: Ohio County Public Library, Wheeling WV (https://tinyurl.com/k2zw2scj) (https://tinyurl.com/4zh4uxy9); Wheeling Daily Register (https://tinyurl.com/89x5efh6), Wheeling Intelligencer (https://tinyurl.com/29rhdc4n), YWCA Wheeling (https://tinyurl.com/55u9cxnh)
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV
RSS Feed
