[1] It was deemed significant as a good example of Queen Anne-style residential architecture, and for its association with pioneer-era businessman Nathaniel W. Duke (1846-1893).

It was built by contractors Pierson and Rinetsen under supervision of Weston & Bicknell as Superintendent of Construction.

[2] Duke moved to Pueblo in 1868 and joined the Thatcher Brothers in their general mercantile store.

In his obituary he was eulogized as "one of the best known wholesale grocerymen in the country, his acquaintance being large throughout the East and West.

Ella, his wife, and son Thomas became officers, and the firm became known as the Henkel-Duke Mercantile Company.