Botherum was built for Madison C. Johnson in 1850[2] or 1851[3] (sources vary) by John McMurtry, a well-known architect and builder based in Lexington.

The house was intended, in part, as a shrine to Johnson's late wife Sally Ann, a sister of Cassius Marcellus Clay who died giving birth in 1828.

[3] Although McMurtry was known for his Gothic Revival architecture, and is credited with establishing the popularity of that style in central Kentucky,[4] Botherum shows an unusual combination of Greek, Roman, and Gothic architectural elements.

[3] A large ginkgo tree that stands on the property is said to have been a gift to Johnson from Henry Clay.

The original 36-acre estate faced High Street, but the house now sits on a 3/4 acre lot and is approached from Madison Place, to the side.