The Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) was founded in England in 1844 by George
Williams, who wanted to help individuals build a "healthy spirit, mind and body" by
using the principals of "Muscular Christianity". These principals quickly spread
across Europe and to the United States, where cities formed their own local YMCA.
The Milwaukee YMCA was formed in 1858 with John H. Van Dyke serving as its first
president. In 1887, the YMCA moved into its first permanent home at 637 N. 4th St.,
which was replaced in 1957 by the New Central Branch at 915 W. Wisconsin Ave. Other
local branches also opened, including in the suburbs. Today, the Milwaukee YMCA
operates four branches in the metropolitan area, as well as other camps and
specialty centers, serving over 36,000 members.
