The YWCA in Milwaukee was first organized in 1892 to aid young working girls by providing activities for them. Elizabeth Plankinton donated the first building, at 626 N. Jackson Street, which was named for her. To expand the activities of the YWCA, a new Activities Building was erected in 1930 next to the Plankinton residence, at 610 N. Jackson Street. The various YWCA programs included self-improvement courses of many kinds, such as gym, dance, charm school, bowling, and swimming. A number of clubs were sponsored for various age groups. The YWCA's Lake Genessee Camp, a summer camp at Oconomowoc, was replaced in 1957 by Camp Gilbert at Waupaca.
