Early Years

In viewing the history of any YWCA it is important to remember that it was not just an organized group of women--the YWCA also represented a "place." Physical premises would attract local women and thus become an important factor in their lives.

The Berlin YWCA occupied a series of rented premises on Frederick and Queen Streets which by 1911 were found to be unsuitable for the very active group. In July 1912 a vigorous fund-raising campaign was begun to build a new building. This first major fund-raising campaign was a portent of things to come--YWCA Boards were to be heavily dependent on public support and "raising money" became, and still is, a significant Board activity.

Baseball teams in Victoria Park ca. 1918

Kitchener YWCA and Guelph YWCA
baseball teams in Victoria Park, circa 1918.

One of the earliest dated photographs in the YWCA collection.
It reads "Mrs. H.D. Schmetzer" taken prior to 1920 (leaves on ground would
probably indicate fall) on front lawn of YWCA. Extreme right - Emma (Prost) Seim,
Fifth from right - Luella Prost, originally of Hanover, Ont.

Kitchener YWCA and Guelph YWCA on their way
to Bridgeport for a wiener roast. (Denton photo, circa 1918)

Shown here is one of the earliest extant pictures of YWCA activities.
Taken ca. 1908, this gymnasium class is wearing a typical uniform for the time --
voluminous bloomers, black stockings, long-sleeved blouses.

YWCA Gym Class,
Winners of the Daily Record Trophy, 1923-24.

To 84 Frederick St.

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Early Years