The Mexico Area Family YMCA celebrated 40 years at their Adams Street location Friday. Sporting their matching ‘80s themed t-shirts, members who have been with the YMCA since it opened reminisce about its history in Mexico. 

It all started with a racquetball club in 1976 in the old Landmark building. 

“You could only play before 8 o’clock, at noon for one hour, or after 5:30 because it was so loud.” says Paul Seigfried a Mexico attorney. “It reverberated through the walls.”

According to a YMCA press release, racquetball club members including Mike Briggs and Nancy Rahmeyer began discussing the need for recreation for all ages in Mexico. 

Before settling in its current location at 1127 Adams St, the YMCA moved around Mexico after receiving a charter in 1978.

“There was an old rural school on Highway 15 that was no longer used and it had a gym in it.” remembers Bronwyn Macfarlane. Programs were held in the Y building and aquatic activities were held at the Missouri Military Academy. 

After gaining a significant membership, the YMCA moved to Monroe street where it became apparent they would be needing their own building. 

In 1984 the new building was opened. Fred Leonard served as Director and Kitty Seigfreid was Chairman of the board.

“I remember Fred Leonard’s brother jumped out of an airplane and parachuted down in front of the Y when we had the grand opening.” says Mary Seigfreid, Kitty’s daughter-in-law.

The YMCA used to host a BINGO night every Saturday when it was first getting stared in order to raise money.

Beverly Macfarlane and her husband Ted Macfarlane used to run BINGO nights together.

“Ted called the numbers for BINGO and I did all the footwork.” says Beverly. “We enjoyed seeing all the people that came to play.”

Currently, the Mexico Area Family YMCA offers many recreational classes and facilities to all ages including senior exercise programs, yoga, pickleball, classes and more. 

“My grandson loves to take advantage of the nursery activities, so it’s nice that we have that.” says Beverly

Many of the members have family who are also now part of the YMCA.

“Over the years my kids and grandkids have all enjoyed playing basketball and swimming. says Kenny Smith. Smith became a member when it opened after moving to Mexico in 1984.

“It looked entirely different 40 years ago than it does today. A lot of nice improvements.”

The latest addition to the YMCA is the gymnasium complete with a walking track which many of the members use daily.

“The success of the Y wouldn’t be possible without all of you.” says Executive Director Brooke Oliver to the group of 40-year members.

“It means a lot that you’re still with us and still living the Y mission, and I’m just kind of blown away by all the people here so thank you so much.”