Characteristic elements include a gambrel roof, symmetric, rectilinear form, fanlights, dormers, dentils, balconies, window keystones, fluted columns, and others.

The house also displays a very high degree of historic integrity on both the exterior and interior, with only minor alterations since its construction in 1910.

Martin Hill (1869–1939) and his orchard property surrounding the house were prominent in the development of the apple industry in the Hood River Valley.

He was active in business and community affairs, including service as a Hood River County Commissioner and Oregon state legislator.

He built this elaborate house in 1910, several years after purchasing his orchard land in 1901, in order to reconcile his wife Carrie (d. 1916) to their relocation from Iowa.