Skip to main content

The Young Men's/Women's Christian Association (YMCA/YWCA)

 Collection
Identifier: U399

Abstract

This collection contains the records of the Young Christian Men's/Women's Organization (YMCA/YWCA) at the University of Denver from 1891-1969, as well as a scrapbook from the 1914 conference of the Student Volunteer Movement, the official foreign missionary arm of the YMCA/YMCA.

Dates

  • 1891-1969

Biographical / Historical

The Young Men's Christian Organization, often known as "The Y," is in an international organization delivering programs and services focused on youth development. It was founded in 1844 by George Williams in London and grew rapidly around the tenents of "muscular Christianity." The first YMCA Student Associations were formed in 1858 at University of Michigan and University of Virginia, while the first YWCA was formed in 1873 at Illinois Normal University.

The Univesity of Denver YMCA and YWCA were organized in 1891, the YMCA by Mr. John R. Mott, college secretary of the International Committee of the YMCA. Charles McCord was the first president of the YMCA and Gertrude Beggs was the first president of the YWCA at the University of the Denver. The YWCA at University of Denver became a full charter member on October 10, 1906.

The YMCA/YWCA organizations at University of Denver lasted at least until 1969.

Extent

1.75 Linear Feet

Scope and Contents

Box 1 contains these folders: Constitution, Correspondence (1918), Events, History (1891-1967), Memorabilia, Newsletter (The Y's Owl), Photographs (1912 Conference), Press (1907-1969), Publications- General Info, Publications - The Vigil and Assertion of Dignity, Student Handbook (1891-92), Reports (1915-1920). Box contains the 1914 Student Volunteer Movement Scrapbook, mostly with press clippings and a few presentations.

Arrangement

Multiple series arranged in Box 1. If more materials are accrued, will expand to multiple boxes. Folders arranged alphabetically.

Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the Special Collections and Archives Repository

Contact:
2150 East Evans Avenue
Denver CO 80208
(303) 871-3428