It is the last remaining building of Gratiot Grove, one of the state's first settlements, a lead-mining outpost begun in Winnebago territory in 1826 on the stage road from Galena to Chicago.

According to its NRHP nomination, it was also deemed significant "as an example of indigenous American building techniques of the nineteenth century.

The coursed ashlar on the main facade and almost rubblestone surface on the remaining sides gives a rich texture to its simple form.

Through the use of wood splayed lintels to emphasize the windows and doors, the builder showed a desire for originality.

The house is the largest limestone residence in Lafayette County and recalls an era when Gratiot*s Grove was a thriving lead-mining settlement.