1914-12-18aa

“Now that the Christmas spirit is in the air, and everyone is aiming to increase others’ enjoyment, the boys’ department of the Young Men’s Christian association is holding ‘open house.’ ”

          Hamilton Spectator.   December 21, 1914

          It was a treat for many young men whose home situations precluded them having a membership with the Hamilton Young Men’s Christian Association.

          From December 17, 1914 to December 19, 1914, the facilities of the building at James and Jackson streets were made available, at various times for various age groups.

          As noted in a Spectator on the “open house,” “every fellow in the city is cordially invited to sample the fun provided in the gymnasium and swimming pool.”¹

               ¹ “ ‘Y’s’ Open House : Message Boys Had Merry Time on Gymnasium Floor.”

          Hamilton Spectator.   December 18, 1914.

          The first group to be given access were “scores of business fellows – boys from 11 to 15 years.” who “made themselves right at home with all the privileges the Y affords.

          “First, on the gymnasium for an hour, all entered with zest into the program provided.

          “Hustle ball, an exceedingly interesting game, and one in which any number can play on a side. Thirty-eight to a very keen contest, and the losers were only defeated by a very narrow margin.

          “But it was in the swimming pool that the most activity was evident. Startled frogs swarming into a pond was what one of the spectators likened it to.

          “And all the while, pandemonium reigned.

          “The live boy enjoys exercising his lungs while enjoying a plunge.”¹

               To control the numbers of boys attending the free sessions, the groupings were divided as follows :

          December 18 from 4 to 6 p.m., fellows from 15 to 18 years who attend school.

          December 18 in the evening, all business and working boys.

          December 19 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., “school chaps” from 11 years to 14 years old.