Built as a private residence and with a construction history dating to c. 1700, it is believed to be Milford's oldest surviving building.

A lean-to section, probably added in the late 18th century, extends to the rear, giving the house a saltbox profile.

A two-story, 19th-century ell is partially built over the lean-to and another, older addition.

[3] The exact sequence of construction of the building's elements was historically a subject of debate among Connecticut's leading architectural historians, including Norman Isham and J. Frederick Kelly.

[3] The oldest portion of the house is believed to date to c. 1700, and was built by Samuel Eells, a prominent local citizen.