Most of the property of the estate was originally known as the Rock Spring Farm of Edward Taylor and the parcel was reported to have been over 197 acres (80 ha) when it was purchased by Owens in 1853.

The mansion is a wood-framed, three-story structure is an example of Second Empire architecture and as such, is topped by mansard roofs on the tower and wings.

In 1889 the majority of the land associated with the estate was sold at auction by the mortgage holder: the Sheppard Pratt Hospital to John Hubner, a Catonsville developer.

Thereafter the mansion house and surrounding 4.9 acres (2.0 ha) was sold to Dr. George F. Sargent, as a private mental hospital from 1919 to 1950.

The gatehouse building of the estate, built in 1860 by Jacob Reese, still stands though the intersection of Cedar and York has been closed.