In 1912 two mothers met at a Seward School Parent-Teachers' Association meeting. One mother was white and the other was black. A while after these two women met, the white mother was made chairperson of the social services committee of the Association. Being that the area was mostly populated with blacks, she knew that in order to do a good job she needed help. She instantly thorught of the black mother that she had met earlier. A friendship was formed that not only would endure their lifetime, but would give birth to great deeds.
It was the black mother that knew of a group of black women that was organized for the purpose of sewing and looking out for the best interest of their race. It was this group of women who first thought of the idea of the Center. It was decided that they would not ask for money. They felt that they should demonstrate that the blacks were taking the first step and earning money.
Concerts were given in January 1917. In April came the call for America to do her part in the war, and all plans for a Center were abandoned.
In 1925 Mrs. Lena M. Johnson (the black mother) met a representative of the Playground and Recreation Association in a nearby town and told him the needs of blacks in Auburn. The district representative was notified and took charge of the situation.
An advisory board was formed and the Booker T. Washington Community Center
of Auburn, NY was formed. On October 31, 1927 the official opening was held.
