Rotary members got an inside peek recently at the latest transformation of an iconic downtown Norfolk building on Brooke Avenue. Although built as a Navy YMCA with funds provided by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, the six-story building is more recently remembered as the home of the Union Mission homeless shelter from the 1970s until just a few years ago. In September the building opened after a major renovation as The Rockefeller with 66 refurbished apartments that are 97% leased.

 

Our tour piqued the interest of club members. Many had never been inside. But some had memories of being in the building during its heyday. Jean Owens attended meetings of an insurance association in the basement. Chuck Spence regaled us with tales of spinning records as disc jockey at parties. Will King recalled staying at the Navy Y as a young military officer. Others remembered dining in the Y's cafe on the mezzanine.

 

True to its namesake, the Rockefeller's architecture is grand with elaborate crown molding and marble flooring that has been preserved. Our group enjoyed seeing an apartment, the billiards room and a fitness center that sits on top of the original swimming pool.