Beaumont Y.M.C.A.
historic place
The Beaumont Y.M.C.A. has a history rooted in the city's early 20th-century growth. Following the 1901 Spindletop oil boom, Beaumont experienced rapid population increase, accompanied by social challenges. On November 3, 1901, a community meeting was held, leading to the organization of the Beaumont Y.M.C.A. George W. Carroll was elected president, and 35 individuals enrolled. The first building, located at Pearl and Forsythe streets, was completed in 1903. This facility included 30 dormitory rooms, an 800-seat auditorium, a bowling alley, and an indoor swimming pool. By 1928, civic and religious leaders, including General Secretary Dr. Hastings Harrison, raised $316,000 to construct a modern building. This four-story brick structure, completed in 1928, is located at 934 Calder Avenue. It displayed Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Dr. Harrison was instrumental in securing the first Jewish board member for a YMCA in the United States. In 1936, B. A. Steinhagen provided a separate building for Black members. The Beaumont Y.M.C.A. represents a significant local effort to address community needs during periods of rapid change.