YMCA

The Salem branch of the YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) was established in 1858, and from 1884-1898 was located at 20 1/2 Central Street.

Though originally built for affordable housing, the present-day YMCA (288 Essex St.) is a light brick and freestone building built in 1898. Its second floor auditorium is named Ames Hall, in honor of George Leonard Ames, a benefactor of the Association. The building is on the site of the Sanders homestead, where Alexander Graham Bell perfected the telephone when he was working with their deaf son.

See Also

• Salem YMCA Website

• Visitor's Guide to Salem 1953 ed.