Brothers Ransom H. Horn (1823–1904) and Frederick N. Horn (1837–1866) were cabinetmakers and gunsmiths and also did carpentry and building. Ransom is thought to have received some training from Augustus Phelps. This end-gabled house is distinguished for the two extended front bays with pedimented gables that frame a deeply recessed porch. A simplified three-band entablature wraps the house. Two square box columns support the porch, which, together with the pediments and quality woodwork, give the house a restrained Greek Revival character. The Horn and Brother firm executed moldings, mantels, and furniture for the house.
Judge Harry K. Polk purchased the house in 1901, and his wife, Ella Burleson Polk, who had studied art at Baylor University, painted the interior of the house with floral decorations, which are preserved, as is Ransom’s furniture.