Backstory and Context
The YWCA's origins date back to the mid-1850s. The first association was established in London and not long after in the United States (there are now YWCAs around the world). As stated above, the Bellingham YWCA formed in 1907. Members first met in private homes and then rented a room in the public library. The lack of a permanent location and substantial financial help in early years made it difficult for the members but they persisted in their mission. Seeing the good work the YWCA was doing (his wife and daughter were actively involved in the organization), Charles Larrabee decided to take the lead in the effort to build the a new home for it. Unfortunately, he died before it was completed. Today, YMCA Bellingham continues to work towards empowering women from the local community.
"History." YWCA Bellingham. Accessed February 10, 2020. https://www.ywcabellingham.org/history.
Mariz, George. "Young Women's Christian Association." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. April 21, 1977. https://npgallery.nps.gov/GetAsset/a9f7be66-5cf8-4a2f-8aa2-5efe8a7411ee.
"YWCA Building (1026 N. Forest Street)." City of Bellingham. Accessed February 10, 2020. https://www.cob.org/services/planning/historic/buildings/Pages/ywca-building.aspx.
Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:YWCA_Bellingham_2.JPG