Peterborough Family YMCA

The heritage value of the Peterborough Family YMCA building resides in association with some of Canada's leading architects, which include local architect William Blackwell and his son Walter Blackwell. Built in 1895 and originally designed by William Blackwell, this substantial victorian structure has Romanesque Revival features that are also captured in the 1930's addition designed by Walter Blackwell. Later modern additions were constructed in 1969 and 1978 by Craig and Zeidler, and Allen, Brown and Sheriff of Toronto, respectively.

The Peterborough Family YMCA building's heritage value also resides in its contribution to the downtown streetscape. As well as being an imposing physical presence, it is an anchor building to an important Civic Square in Peterborough, which, in addition to other public buildings, includes the City Hall and the Armouries.

The Peterborough Family YMCA building is also important because of its association with the Young Men's Christian Association. Built with the funding of local benefactress, Charlotte Nicholls, it served as the home for this growing Association. A number of different facilities have been included in the building over the years, including dormitories, a bowling alley, billiard hall,hall, gymnasium, and pools.