Connecticut YMCAs Survive Depression Era

William L. Miller, writing in A History of the State YMCA of Connecticut from 1867 to 1950 (Eastern Press, New Haven, Connecticut, 1951), recounts that during the Great Depression - "Many of the modern YMCA buildings now in use were built in the years between 1924 and 1940. These buildings often symbolize not only a healthy Association but also a revived confidence in the YMCA on the part of the community."

"One of the most significant advances made during the decade beginning in 1925 was the generating of new life in the Association of Bridgeport. Within less than three years a campaign for a new building produced more than $600,000 and gave Bridgeport one of the most up-to-date YMCA buildings, dedicated in December 1929."

"In South Norwalk which had been the headquarters of the Fairfield County YMCA for ten years, leading citizens became convinced that a building was needed and asked State Secretary Smith to direct a survey. The survey revealed the need not only of a building with a city type of program for a YMCA but also for a YWCA. Within two years the necessary money was raised and a building erected in 1929 to serve both sexes. "

"These buildings erected in the period between the two World Wars were the forerunners of a wave of new buildings constructed in Connecticut cities including Ansonia, Greenwich, Hartford, Meriden, Naugatuck, New London, Norwich, Southington, Torrington and Wesport." ]