It is a rare example of a rammed earth structure totally contained within later extensions, representative of the type of dwelling built in the York area, and elsewhere, during the early settlement years.

The single storey structure has a broken pitched, hipped roof covered with corrugated galvanised iron.

[1]: 2 The widespread use of rammed earth as a construction method during the 1830s and 1840s probably places Eliza's Cottage somewhere within this time frame.

It is considered that there was definitely a house on the property when Burton purchased it in 1860, as bricks had replaced rammed earth as the preferred material.

[7] The considerable increase in the resale value of the property suggests that major improvements had been made to the building by Tomkinson prior to the sale.

[9] The cottage was sold by George Stirling (operating on behalf of the trustees) for £120 in 1901 to William Cox, a teamster living in York.

[10] Cox defaulted on his payments and the property passed into the possession of Neville, who sold the cottage in 1920 to Janet Clement.