A CENTURY OF IMPACT and Beyond
Nestled in the heart of Reno, the Twentieth Century Club represents over a century of community service, personal growth, and civic dedication. The seeds of this remarkable organization were sown on June 4, 1894, when 25 visionary women gathered at the Odd Fellow’s Hall to consider forming a women’s club. The meeting was led by Mrs. Walter McNab Miller, who was later elected as the club's first president.
With a mission focused on “personal improvement and public good,” the club adopted the guiding motto: “The measure of the worth of an organization to its community is found in its ability to embrace opportunities for service.” The new organization quickly attracted members, offering friendship, study, and civic involvement for Reno's women.
Early Achievements
From the outset, the Twentieth Century Club pursued ambitious projects that profoundly impacted the community:
- 1894: Established a circulating library.
- 1898: Created scholarships for young women pursuing education.
- 1901: Championed the founding of Reno's first kindergarten and successfully advocated for public kindergartens statewide.
Building a Legacy
Over the years, the club moved between various locations, including the Odd Fellow’s Hall, Library Hall, and YMCA. By 1925, it had raised funds to construct a dedicated clubhouse at 335 West First Street. This clubhouse became a hub for social and cultural life in Reno, hosting weddings, dances, civic meetings, and more. Despite financial hurdles, the club maintained its vibrant presence and continued adapting to meet evolving needs.
Supporting the Community
During World War II, members devoted themselves to supporting war efforts by knitting, sewing, volunteering, and working with organizations like the Red Cross and the USO. The clubhouse became a gathering place for service members and community events. Even after selling the building in 1980 due to financial challenges, the club shifted its focus to philanthropy, donating an average of $20,000 annually to civic causes.
Ongoing Traditions
Today, the Twentieth Century Club remains active, hosting monthly luncheons, celebrating Charter Day, and funding nursing scholarships. Its history reflects an unwavering commitment to service, adaptability, and empowerment—qualities that continue to inspire new generations.
NOTABLE WOMEN OF THE TCC
The Twentieth Century Club (TCC) has been graced by many remarkable women whose contributions have left a lasting impact. These women exemplify the TCC's legacy of leadership, education, and societal progress. Here are a few of their profiles. Which of their stories resonates most with you?
 Helen Guthrie (Mrs. Walter McNab Miller) (1862-1949)
Even at age 13, Helen was a do-er making the honor roll of Scribner’s Illustrated Magazine for Boys and Girls. Born and raised in Ohio, she attended Putnum Seminary. Completing her education, she taught in schools on the East Coast before coming to Nevada in 1887 to teach at Bishop Whitaker’s College. She became Mrs. Walter McNab Miller in 1888. The couple were active members of the National Education Association in San Francisco and presented educational papers to Nevada’s Legislature. Helen served as 1st vice president of the National American Women Suffrage. Before women had the right to vote, she lobbied for food safety programs in Washington, DC—securing passage of the ground-breaking consumer protection bill, the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. |
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Hannah Keziah Clapp 
Anne Henrietta Martin