Henry W. Miller, a flour wholesaler and dealer who played an important role in Galena's large flour-producing industry, had the house built between 1847 and 1850.

The house was built on a plot of land overlooking the plank toll road that connected Galena to Dubuque, Iowa and Mineral Point, Wisconsin; the route, which is now part of U.S. Route 20, eventually became known for its collection of large, elaborate homes.

Miller chose the popular Greek Revival style for his house; its design features sidelights and a transom around the front door, a door surround with pilasters and dentillation, and a symmetrical front with six-over-six windows.

Richard Barrett, who owned the house in the 1870s, added its Italianate bay window.

[2] The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 13, 2010.