National Register Listing

Cumberland YMCA

a.k.a. AL-IV-A-151

205 Baltimore Ave., Cumberland, MD
The Cumberland YMCA building is significant under Criterion C for its architectural character: built in 1925, the YMCA is an excellent example of the institutional architecture of its time, representing the academic classicism that characterized such buildings in the period. The building derives additional significance under Criterion A for its portrayal of the YMCA as a community institution in Cumberland. The YMCA was established in Cumberland in 1873 and was situated at various locations prior to the construction of the present building; this building has been home to the YMCA longer than any other place in Cumberland. At the time of its construction, it offered the only indoor swimming pool in the Cumberland area. The period of significance, 1925-1947, was selected to encompass the period extending from the construction of the building to date fifty years in the past.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Entertainment/recreation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1997.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture entertainment recreation
Harriet Tubman, a famous abolitionist, was born in Maryland: Harriet Tubman, who escaped slavery and became a famous abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad, was born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland. She later returned to Maryland many times to lead other enslaved people to freedom.
Maryland random facts
Allegany County, located in western Maryland, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The region was home to Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Seneca, before the arrival of European settlers. In the 18th century, the French and British fought for control of the area, with the British ultimately establishing dominance and building Fort Cumberland in present-day Cumberland.

During the 19th century, Allegany County experienced significant growth and development due to its close proximity to the National Road, a major transportation route connecting the East Coast to the Ohio River Valley. The county became an important logistical hub and saw the establishment of towns and industries such as manufacturing, coal mining, and transportation. In 1854, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was completed, further boosting commercial activity in the region.

Allegany County played a significant role during the American Civil War. Located on the border between the North and the South, the county was heavily contested and saw multiple skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Folck's Mill. The war had a lasting impact on the county, causing economic disruption and leaving scars on the landscape.

In the 20th century, Allegany County continued to experience changes in its economy and demographics. The decline of traditional industries such as coal mining and manufacturing led to a shift towards service industries, healthcare, and education. The county is home to Frostburg State University and the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which both contribute to its cultural and tourist attractions. Today, Allegany County combines its historical significance with its modern developments, offering a unique blend of heritage and progress.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Allegany County, Maryland.

  • 1789 - Allegany County was established by the General Assembly of Maryland.
  • 1791 - The county seat was established in Cumberland.
  • 1801 - The National Road, a major highway, was authorized to be constructed through Allegany County.
  • 1811 - The first courthouse in Cumberland was completed.
  • 1824 - The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal began construction in Cumberland, becoming an important transportation route.
  • 1851 - The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad reached Cumberland, further enhancing transportation in the county.
  • 1862 - Allegany County played a significant role in the American Civil War as a transportation hub and defense location.
  • 1920s - The county experienced economic growth due to coal mining and the manufacturing industry.
  • 1950s - The construction of Interstate 68 provided better transportation access to Allegany County.
  • Today - Allegany County continues to be a picturesque area with a mix of rural and urban landscapes, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and historical sites.