Florence Crittenton Home Listed in the State Register of Historic Places
The State Historic Preservation Office is pleased to announce that the Florence Crittenton Home of Nevada, also known as the Aitken House, has been listed in the State of Nevada Register of Historic Places for its significant contributions to women’s history in Nevada. The property was recognized under Criteria A for its association with the Florence Crittenton Mission of Nevada, Inc., which operated the home as a women-serving institution between 1919 to 1930.
The Florence Crittenton Mission was part of a national nonprofit network that supported women and children in need across all fifty states. The Reno home was the only Crittenton facility in Nevada, offering housing, childcare, medical care, and counseling to unmarried mothers and their children. Its work played a meaningful role in advancing women’s independence and empowerment during the early 20th century.
Originally constructed between 1892 and 1904, the Queen Anne–style residence was the family home of John Fulton Aitken and Annie E. Aitken. After Mr. Aitken’s death in 1905, Annie sold the property to the Crittenton Mission in 1919. Following a decline in demand for services, the Mission sold the home to Dr. Theodore and Ida Koldewey in 1930. Today, the property remains a private residence in Reno, Nevada.
The nomination was prepared by Melissa Hafey, Management Assistant of Arts and Culture in the Public Works Department of the City of Reno with the support of the home’s current owners. This marks Hafey’s first nomination. “It’s such an honor to help bring recognition to this historic property and to shed more light on the amazing Nevada women who helped shape our state,” Hafey said.
Nevada’s State Register recognizes places of historic and cultural importance and aims to preserve and celebrate these resources. “It is appropriate that this newest State Register listing comes as our state celebrates March as Women’s History Month,” said Jean‑Guy Tanner Dubé, Nevada’s State and National Register Coordinator. “The State Register highlights places that tell Nevada’s story, and the Crittenton Home is an important part of that history.”
State Historic Preservation Officer Arthur Krupicz added, “The Crittenton Home is a wonderful addition to the State Register. Like all listed properties, it stands as an important physical testament to Nevada’s dynamic history.”
The Florence Crittenton Home joins other notable Reno and Washoe County listings, including the Pioneer Theater Auditorium, Washoe County Courthouse, and the Lake Mansion. A simultaneous nomination to the National Register of Historic Places has also been submitted for federal review.
About the State of Nevada Register of Historic Places
Created by the Nevada Legislature in 1979, the State Register is maintained by the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and includes resources significant in history, architecture, archaeology, and culture. Eligible properties are generally at least 50 years old, retain strong physical integrity, and demonstrate historical significance.
For more information about this listing or the State Register program, visit shpo.nv.gov or contact Jean-Guy Tanner Dubé at (775) 684-3439 or shpo-info@shpo.nv.gov.