Akron YMCA Building facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Akron Y.M.C.A. Building
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View from north
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 Location in Ohio
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| Location | Akron, Ohio |
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| Architect | Clemmer-Noah Construction Company and Good & Wagner |
| Architectural style | Art Deco |
| NRHP reference No. | 80003237 |
| Added to NRHP | 1980-10-31 |
The Akron YMCA Building is a special historic building in Akron, Ohio. It was added to the National Register on October 31, 1980. This means it's recognized as an important place in history.
Today, the YMCA still uses parts of the building. They have exercise areas, sports facilities, and meeting rooms on the first five floors. However, the YMCA no longer owns the whole building. They now rent their space from the current owner.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the main part of the building was updated. It now has 55 apartment homes, some of which are two stories tall. There are also offices on the first floor and in the basement. A secure garage is also located in the basement. People who live in the apartments or work in the offices need a YMCA membership to use the sports facilities.
In 2008, the City of Akron celebrated its history. The Akron YMCA Building was chosen as one of seven important historic landmarks in the city.
Contents
Discovering the Akron YMCA Building's Past
How the YMCA Started in Akron
The Akron Area YMCA began in 1870. The YMCA is a community organization that helps people grow in spirit, mind, and body. It offers programs and services for all ages.
Building a Community Hub in the 1920s
The Akron YMCA Building was built in the 1920s. The YMCA then moved into this new building. Back then, YMCA buildings often provided places for people to eat, stay, and gather. It was a safe and welcoming place for many.
The building was designed with an indoor pool, which is still used today. The main part of the building also offered living spaces for many members. It was a helpful resource for people who needed a place to stay.
Updates and New Uses for the Building
By the 1970s and 1980s, some of the living areas needed repairs. Because of this, the building was sold for a big renovation project. This project turned parts of the building into the apartments and offices we see today.
Finding the Building: Canal Square Plaza
In front of the building, there is a small curved area called "Canal Square Plaza." The building's official address is "1 Canal Square Plaza." However, some older systems, like the local phone company, still use the old address, "80 West Center Street." This can sometimes cause confusion, but most services recognize the new address.
Images for kids
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View from north
