History of the Boys and Girls Club of Albany

Although Ira McDowell had no children of his own, he had a great love and concern for young people.  After doing extensive research, Mr. McDowell gathered a group of men together in 1959 to raise the money necessary to buy property and build a Boys' Club.  This group included Harrison Weatherford, who later became the first President of the Board.  On September 29, 1959, the Albany Boys Club Board of Directors voted to purchase the Hill Street site for $7,500.  In January 1960, the property next to the club was purchased from Mr. J.C. Reed for $6,500.

From September to December, the Board, under the leadership of Building Chairman Rex Casey, worked at a frantic pace, holding painting parties and putting the finishing touches on the building.  As a Christmas present to the community, the Albany Boys Club opened its doors on December 27, 1966, with 488 boy members.