The YMCA building was the first building specifically constructed for use by the Young Men's Christian Association in Racine. The Racine Association was founded in 1875. In its first decade, the group met in various buildings around the city. Finally, in 1885 it was decided that the YMCA deserved its own building. Racine architect J.G. Chandler designed the new Queen Anne style building, which was constructed in 1886.

The YMCA building stands on the site of the Blake Opera House, which burned in 1884. Several decorative features suggest that Chandler incorporated extant portions of the opera house into the new building. The original plans for the YMCA building included a bowling alley, stores, a gymnasium, reading rooms, classrooms, a library, a kitchen, and a meeting hall. By 1915 users found the YMCA building to be far too cluttered and busy; as a result, the YMCA constructed a new building on Fourth and Wisconsin streets. Today, yet another new YMCA building has been erected, but the original structure remains.

The YMCA Building is privately owned. Please respect the rights and privacy of the tenants.