New York, circa 1906-1950

Documents concerning the administration, programs and management of the YWCA of Rochester, New York. The administrative history of the association can be traced through its constitutions and bylaws, lists of professional and volunteer leaders, association fact sheets and association timelines. As a charter member of the YWCA of the U.S.A., the YWCA of Rochester has strong ties to the area of Rochester and a large program. Department reports and annual reports from the Business and Professional, and Industrial departments review and assess the programs for employed women. The Business and Professional Department works with the Business Girls' League providing services to young women employed in professions outside of industry. The Industrial Department works with women in Industry and domestic work and often addresses issues of labor, unions and working conditions. One situation arising from the Industrial Department of the YWCA of Rochester is well documented at the end of the microdex. After performing a play by Muriel Ward titled "On the Line," published by Womans Press, the association came under criticism for its message and policy concerning organized labor. Through correspondence and meeting notes, the repercussions of the event and the implications for the YWCA of the U.S.A. are revealed. In addition to correspondence and notes, the script of the play is included.