NYC Schools Opened as Recreation Centers

AS EARLY AS 1898, schools were opened in New York City (with leadership and supervision) for evening recreation as a continuation of the summer playground program. Many school plants included a gymnasium, auditorium, swimming pool, library, and other space suitable for recreation purposes. However, these areas were usually idle during evenings, weekends, and vacation periods. The wisdom of opening these facilities to the public, rather than spending additional money to duplicate them in special recreation buildings, soon became apparent.

When the Big Apple led the way in opening school buildings for recreation, other cities followed the example. The idea received nationwide attention in 1907 when a school extension committee was organized in Rochester. The gradual introduction of features into school buildings which serve both school and community recreation needs was fostered by the National Community Center Association. And, in 1911, the state of Wisconsin passed legislation authorizing school authorities to levy a tax for recreation purposes.