The long tenure of the Kitto family helped preserve many original features in this classic 1897 Queen Anne style home. The turned porch posts, spindle frieze, and Japanese style railing remain as stylistic hallmarks. Inside, original wainscoting, incised door and window trim, plate and picture rails, a spindle work staircase, and Craftsman style built-ins remain unaltered. William and Lydia Kitto emigrated from Cornwall, England, in the 1880s and purchased this two-bedroom, one-bath home in 1901. William started work in Butte as a builder and later spent fifty years blacksmithing for the Anaconda Company. Lydia and William raised six children here. Despite cramped quarters, the Kittos cherished their close-knit family. In 1931, The Montana Standard published an article with a family portrait celebrating their longevity and success in Butte. All the Kitto children graduated from Butte High School, and their daughter Dorothy attended the University of Montana. James owned the Butte Rapid Transit Company, Howard was a musician and blacksmith, and Wilmot was an electrician at the Anaconda Company. William and Lydia died in the 1940s; Wilmot remained in residence until 1970.
Images
Documents
| Name | Info | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Kitto Family newspaper article | pdf / 442.71 kB | Download |
| Research files.pdf | pdf / 6.93 MB | Download |