History of the Johnstown YWCA Building
The impressive building at 526 Somerset Street began as a private mansion rather than a purpose-built YWCA. It was constructed in 1902 for James P. Thomas, a prominent Johnstown businessman who served as president of the Smokeless Coal Company and treasurer of A. J. Hawes and Sons, Ltd.
The Thomas mansion
The house was designed by Walter R. Myton, one of Johnstown’s leading architects during the early 20th century. Myton was Cornell-trained, arrived in Johnstown around 1900 and worked as project architect on Johnstown City Hall before establishing his own local practice. He later designed numerous residences, churches, schools and commercial buildings throughout the region.
The mansion’s appearance reflected the prosperity generated by Johnstown’s coal, steel and industrial economy. Its imposing symmetrical façade includes:
- Four monumental fluted columns with ornate capitals
- A curved entrance portico
- Classical pediments and decorative cornices
- Twin brick chimneys
- Large porches and prominent dormer windows
Architecturally, it has a strong Classical and Colonial Revival character, intended to convey permanence, refinement and the status of its original owner.
Formation of the Johnstown YWCA
Johnstown’s YWCA movement formally developed during the Billy Sunday religious meetings in the fall of 1913. On December 14, 1913, a large public gathering was held at First Presbyterian Church, where supporters declared that a local YWCA was urgently needed. By January 5, 1914, the Johnstown organization had affiliated with the national YWCA.
Its early work included adult-education programs, cooperation with the Red Cross and participation in World War I relief activities.
The YWCA moves into the mansion
On June 22, 1918, the organization decided to purchase the James P. Thomas property on Somerset Street. The first YWCA board meeting inside its new headquarters was held on November 21, 1918. The conversion of an industrialist’s mansion into a women-centered community institution marked a major change in the building’s purpose.
The YWCA has now occupied the property for more than a century. Over that time, the building has served as a place for education, recreation, childcare, swimming, women’s programs and assistance for individuals and families. The organization continues to operate from 526 Somerset Street today.
A small historical-name discrepancy
The YWCA’s own history calls the architect Walter P. Myton, while a University of Pittsburgh archive caption calls him Thomas W. Myton. Established architectural and government records identify the prominent Johnstown architect as Walter R. Myton, making that the most strongly documented version of his name.
Today, the building is significant both as a surviving mansion from Johnstown’s industrial golden age and as the longtime home of an organization devoted to women and community service.