It was built by the United States Forest Service (USFS) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the early-1930s.

The listing includes five contributing buildings on a 3-acre (1.2 ha) property, designed by USFS architects in Bungalow/Craftsman style.

During excavations for the construction of the basement, workers unearthed a redwood coffin containing the remains of local pioneer Captain Joe Parks.

After the coffin's removal, concrete was poured to form the basement, which was finished in early December 1932, when work ceased for the winter.

In addition to the residence and barn, a new office building, a three-bay garage and a small pumphouse along nearby Turkey Creek were also constructed, all of adobe brick.