Vigo County Historical Society
Historical Treasure Article
Historic Treasure of the Week -
August 4, 2002
By Dr. Dipa Sarkar
Vigo County Historical Society
YWCA starts small, makes big impact
Because the YWCA has served women for 100 years, it is a part of the Vigo County Historical Museum’s new exhibit called “Celebration.”
The YWCA is a star organization that probably benefited women all over the world. Originally begun by Emma Roberts in England in 1855 as a home for working girls, it came to the United States 10 years later. The Terre Haute YWCA was organized in 1902 when a house at 664 Ohio St. was leased. Two years later on May 30, it was incorporated under the act of the General Assembly of 1893 making it possible to organize both the YWCA and YMCA in Indiana. The Terre Haute YWCA was the third in Indiana and 66 members of its board of directors signed the original document. The central theme was “improvement of physical, social, intellectual and spiritual well being of young women.”
The organization was relocated several times until enough money was raised to establish a permanent home. A building was constructed at 121 N. Seventh St. which opened in 1908. It provided housing for 50 to 60 girls. Through the years, many girls who were employed or attended school found a safe and friendly environment at the YWCA. Food service was provided and a cafeteria was open to the general public until the late 1950s. Facilities included an indoor swimming pool and gymnasium. During World War II, the USO was started at the YWCA and training was conducted for air raid spotters.
Gradually, activities increased even more. The first typing classes were taught locally. Y-teens, golden age clubs, single parent clubs and professional women’s clubs were started. The Y took a leading role in integrating the races. As early as 1948, black women served on the board of directors. Financial support came from United Way, Community Chest, Red Feather and fund drives.
The YWCA remained at the same location for almost 70 years, but needs grew. In 1976, a new building was built on a six-acre plot in Fairbanks Park. Programs for youth and adults were greatly expanding. The physical plant now houses a swimming pool, gym, fitness center and meeting rooms for support groups, arts and crafts workshops, child care and out reach programs.
The YWCA is a place where women of different backgrounds can come together sharing ideas. It is a vibrant organization with constant growth and expansion, due to tireless efforts of the board of directors, trustees, volunteers and outstanding directors. We can all be proud to have the YWCA to nurture our physical, mental and spiritual needs.
The Historical Museum of the Wabash Valley, 1411 S. Sixth St., is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The Web site: http://web.indstate.edu/community/vchs.