Open day/tour at the YMCA heritage building

Cork Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) was established in September 1886 by a group of local men. Before long, local merchants—led by the first YMCA President and well-known entrepreneur JC Newsom—raised funds for a new building and hall on Marlboro Street. The premises were designed by architect William Henry Hill and constructed by John Delaney. The building officially opened in March 1894.

At the time, the YMCA’s facilities were in high demand. The Reading Rooms were open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and a variety of clubs were offered throughout the week, including cycling, chess, cricket, camera, tennis clubs and a gymnasium.

We are proud to say that the Marlboro Street building continues to serve the YMCA to this day, forming an important part of Cork City’s social history. We are the only youth centre based in the city centre, working with hundreds of young people aged 16–25 and their families through various day and evening projects. It also serves as the headquarters of YMCA Ireland.

On Heritage Day, we will open our doors to the public, offering individual guided tours, sharing stories of past and current work. We will showcase our impressive heritage collection, which includes approximately 20 books (from 1886 to the 1980s) documenting various YMCA departments as well as organizational minute books (1890s). Our collection also features early photographs of students and staff from the 1900s, original building plans, and newspaper clippings dating back to the 1890s.

All visitors are most welcome.