However, according to old newspaper articles Daniel B. James commissioned a firm, Hammond & Carlson, to design the home in 1858 or 1859.

The hallmark of a Jerkinhead is in the gable rising up vertically about halfway up the ridge and then the roof tilts back at a steep incline.

Originally, the James House had a three-story tower in the back (northeast) corner of the home, making the structure stand out even more than it does today.

Each of the three second floor windows on the east side of the home are set in raised gables, each topped by small Jerkinhead roofs.

The porch decorating the exterior today is not the original, though it dates back about thirty years.