This Women’s History Month, I want to introduce you to Helen M. Geren—the original owner of a stunning 1906 Alfred Faber-designed home I’m showcasing this week in Portland’s beloved Clinton-Richmond Neighborhood.

From the moment I stepped inside this home, I couldn’t wait to tell its story. I’ve learned much about Faber over the past two years of prepping, but it wasn’t until this week that I discovered Ms. Geren’s fascinating story.

A Visionary Woman Ahead of Her Time

After I read what the current owners shared about Helen, I walked through the house imagining her collaborating with Faber, making bold and personal design choices:

• The beautiful side stairwell leading from the exquisite sunroom to the second-floor bedrooms—was this her idea?
• The unique molding was placed midway down the second-floor hallway—did she use it to display art or fine china?
• The extensive patio outside the primary bedroom—did she enjoy spring mornings overlooking what was likely an orchard?

Beyond the home’s design, Helen’s story takes an even more intriguing turn.

A Trailblazer in Real Estate

Through research, a local architect and Faber enthusiast uncovered key details about Helen’s life:

• She worked for the James H. Tipton real estate company when the industry was dominated by men.
• She wasn’t just another employee—she was known for her sharp business acumen and fearless ambition.
• In 1915, she married Tipton himself, blending business with personal life in a partnership marked by both success and controversy.
• Around this time, she commissioned Alfred Faber to design and build this home for approximately $3,500—an audacious move that showcased her financial independence and vision.

A Life of Triumph and Scandal

The story reads that Helen’s ambition, however, came with complications:

• Alongside Tipton—and even her elderly minister father—she became entangled in real estate fraud schemes.
• These legal troubles ultimately led to prison time, adding an unexpected twist to her legacy.

A Home That Tells a Story

Today, as I prepare to present this remarkable home to the real estate market, I am struck by how much history it holds. This property is a window into a bygone era, reflecting Helen’s audacity, triumphs, and missteps.

Moving forward, I’m curious about the many other women like Helen who shaped the real estate industry—not only as pioneers but as cautionary figures whose legacies continue to provoke thought. It would have been incredible to have a conversation over tea or perhaps bourbon with her and hear her side of the story.