Heritage

The opening of the enlarged YWCA hostel in Madras Street, Christchurch

The opening of the enlarged YWCA hostel in Madras Street, Christchurch

The opening of the enlarged YWCA hostel in Madras Street, Christchurch
[1918]

The Young Women's Christian Association was set up in Christchurch in 1883. It passed through almost 20 years of instability before it finally became established in the community in 1901. From Apr. 1909 its headquarters was a nine-room, two-storey wooden house with a 12-bed capacity at 245 Madras Street, between Hereford and Cashel Streets. On 16 Mar. 1914 it opened new premises in Madras Street near the corner of Latimer Square, with 29 beds. Its activities steadily grew and there was public fundraising to enlarge this building. The building alterations, including the addition of a third storey, were completed in Oct. 1918, a dedication service was held, and the building re-opened. There was now room for 60 girls as well as domestic staff. The property was sold in 1982 or 1983, eventually becoming Charlie B's backpackers accommodation in 1999

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File Reference CCL PhotoCD 8, IMG0073

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