Ponce YMCA Building facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Ponce YMCA Building
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Ponce YMCA in Barrio Canas Urbano, Ponce, Puerto Rico
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 Location in Puerto Rico
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| Location | 7843 Calle Nazaret Urbanización Santa Maria Ponce, Puerto Rico |
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| Area | 6,349 m2 (68,340 sq ft) (lot) |
| Built | 1953–1955 |
| Built by | Lopez & Perez Builders |
| Architect | Pedro A. de Castro Gaya |
| Muralist | Rafael Ríos Rey |
| Architectural style | Modern |
| NRHP reference No. | 12000331 |
| Added to NRHP | 4 June 2012 |
The Ponce YMCA Building is a special building in Ponce, Puerto Rico. It is located at 7843 Calle Nazaret in the Santa Maria neighborhood. This building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 4, 2012. This means it's recognized as an important historical place.
History of the Ponce YMCA
The story of the YMCA in Puerto Rico began in 1917 when the YMCA group started in San Juan. By 1919, people wanted to open a YMCA in Ponce too. However, some big hurricanes in 1928 and 1931 caused problems. Money that was meant for the Ponce YMCA had to be used to fix the San Juan YMCA building after the storms.
In 1934, the YMCA in Puerto Rico became able to support itself. But then the Great Depression happened, making it hard to find money for new projects. Even the General Secretary, who was in charge, didn't get paid for six months! Because of these challenges, the Ponce YMCA officially started in 1947. The building was designed by an architect named Pedro A. de Castro Gaya. Construction on the new Ponce YMCA building began on September 10, 1953, and it officially opened its doors on February 22, 1955.
A Special Building: Listed in History
The Ponce YMCA was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 4, 2012. This list includes places that are important to the history of the United States. One reason the Ponce YMCA was added to this list is because of a beautiful mural inside. A famous artist named Rafael Rios Rey painted this mural, which is called "El Hombre" (meaning "Man" in English).
What Happens There Today?
The Ponce YMCA building has been used continuously since it opened in 1955. It's a very busy place, especially during the summer. Many children and teenagers use its programs throughout the year. Over 400 kids take part in its activities!
The YMCA also hosts popular summer camp programs. It often works with the local Boy Scout groups to help their programs grow. The building is well-known for its sports facilities, which are used a lot by the community.
