The Nevada State Children’s Home, located in Carson City, Nevada, has a rich history spanning over a century, dedicated to the care and welfare of orphaned, neglected, and dependent children. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when concerns arose about the welfare of vulnerable children in the state.
Founding and Early Years (1899-1930s):
The Nevada State Children’s Home was established in 1899 through legislation passed by the Nevada State Legislature. The home was founded with the primary mission of providing shelter, care, and education to orphaned and abandoned children across the state. Initially, it operated under the oversight of the Nevada State Board of Control.
In its early years, the home faced challenges common to institutions of its kind, including limited resources and overcrowding. Despite these challenges, dedicated staff members worked tirelessly to provide for the physical, emotional, and educational needs of the children under their care.
During the mid-20th century, the Nevada State Children’s Home underwent significant expansion and development. With the passage of new legislation and increased public awareness of child welfare issues, the home received additional funding and support.
This period saw improvements in infrastructure, facilities, and programming to better serve the needs of the children. The home expanded its services to include not only residential care but also counseling, educational support, and vocational training to prepare the children for independent living.
In the late 20th century and into the 21st century, the Nevada State Children’s Home continued to evolve to meet the changing needs of the community and the children it served. Emphasis shifted towards family reunification, foster care, and adoption services, reflecting a broader national trend towards promoting family-based care for children in need.
The home also embraced advancements in child welfare practices, incorporating trauma-informed care, evidence-based interventions, and community partnerships to enhance outcomes for the children and families it served.
Today, the Nevada State Children’s Home remains committed to its founding mission while adapting to new challenges and opportunities in the field of child welfare. Through its dedicated staff, supportive community, and collaborative partnerships, it continues to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children in need, helping them build brighter futures.
Nevada State Historic Marker 72 Text
Nevada State Children’s Home
The Nevada Orphans’ Asylum, a privately funded institution, was opened in Virginia City in 1864 by the Daughters of Charity. By 1870, most of its functions were taken over by the Nevada State Orphans’ Home at Carson City, authorized in 1869 by the legislature and constructed on this site. The first child was admitted October 28, 1870.
In 1903, the first building gave way to a larger one, constructed of sandstone from the state prison quarry east of Carson City. This edifice served until 1963 as Nevada’s home for dependent and neglected children. In 1951, its name was changed to the Nevada State Children’s Home.
The stone building was in turn replaced in 1963, in accordance with the modern concept of family-sized groups housed in cottages. The facility closed in 1992.
STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO. 72
COMMEMORATING A CENTURY OF STATE SERVICE TO THE
CHILDREN OF NEVADA
CARSON CITY HISTORICAL COMMISSION
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
Nevada State Historic Marker 72 Map
Nevada State Historic Marker 72 Summary
| Name | Nevada State Children’s Home |
| Location | Carson City, Nevada |
| Latitude, Longitude | 39.1598, -119.7638 |
| Nevada State Historic Marker | 72 |
Nevada State Historical Markers identify significant places of interest in Nevada’s history. The Nevada State Legislature started the program in 1967 to bring the state’s heritage to the public’s attention with on-site markers. These roadside markers bring attention to the places, people, and events that make up Nevada’s heritage. They are as diverse as the counties they are located within and range from the typical mining boom and bust town to the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada Budget cuts to the program caused the program to become dormant in 2009. Many of the markers are lost or damaged.