Paseo YMCA, Historical YMCA building in Kansas City, Missouri
Paseo YMCA is a three-story Colonial Revival structure with symmetrical red brick walls and decorative stone accents across its rectangular front. Large windows punctuate the facade, creating an open and welcoming appearance throughout the building.
This building was constructed in 1914 using funds raised by philanthropist Julius Rosenwald to serve the local community. It gained recognition as a registered national historic place in 1991.
This building holds deep importance for Black sports history, as baseball team owners met here in 1920 to establish a major league that shaped the sport's future.
The building sits at the intersection of East 18th Street and The Paseo, making it straightforward to locate and find. Ongoing renovation work is underway, so visitors should expect ongoing development until 2028.
Architect Charles A. Smith designed the building by blending traditional Colonial Revival elements with the specific needs of a YMCA facility. The result is a structure that balances historical style with functional community space.
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