Manhattan · NYC landmark
Harlem YMCA
180 West 135th Street (aka 174-184 West 135th Street) · Manhattan, New York City
A community landmark records Harlem’s Black cultural life and the history of segregation in recreation.
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NYFE Summary
The branch grew while Black New Yorkers faced segregated recreation and lodging. Its earlier building at 181 West 135th Street stands across the street; the larger successor combined recreation rooms with inexpensive accommodation and became a center of Harlem’s cultural life.
The tall brick building has stone trim, arched openings and a stepped upper outline. Together, the two buildings show the institution’s expansion on the same block. Their history includes both community fundraising and the YMCA’s eventual end to racial segregation.
NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.
Plan a visit
Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.
Official visitor information ↗