Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) National Historic Event

Saint John, New Brunswick
Poster for the YWCA © Library and Archives Canada | Bibliothèque et Archives Canada, Acc. No. R1300-90
Poster for the YWCA
© Library and Archives Canada | Bibliothèque et Archives Canada, Acc. No. R1300-90
Group of black women in front of the Y.W.C.A. boarding house at 698 Ontario Street, Toronto, Ontario © William James / Bibliothèque et Archives Canada | Library and Archives Canada / PA-126710Eight female swimmers, members of the Ottawa YWCA "Aquamaids," ready to dive into the "Y" pool © Office National du Film du Canada | National Film Board of Canada / Bibliothèque et Archives Canada | Library and Archives CanadaEleven young women, all members of the Ottawa "Knick-Knack" club, a Canadian Welfare Club, practise calisthenics at the Ottawa YWCA © Office National du Film du Canada | National Film Board of Canada / Bibliothèque et Archives Canada | Library and Archives CanadaPoster for the YWCA © Library and Archives Canada | Bibliothèque et Archives Canada, Acc. No. R1300-90
Address : Saint John, New Brunswick

Recognition Statute: Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date: 1998-07-15

Other Name(s):
  • Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA)  (Designation Name)
Research Report Number: 1998-18

Importance: Supported an enlarged role for women in employment, higher education and public service

Plaque(s)


Since the founding of the first YWCA in Saint John in 1870, this association has facilitated Canadian women's access to employment and higher education. The aim of this Protestant, evangelical organization was to mould worthy citizens, wives and mothers by promoting their moral, intellectual and physical development. It offered residence, support and educational services for young women students and workers living alone in cities. The YWCA buildings found all across our country testify to the large influence of this international movement since the late 19th century.