Built for Henry Massie, who operated a successful plantation in Falling Spring Valley, this is an important local example of Federal style. Pedimented gable ends and a dentil cornice lend formality to the two-story, five-bay weatherboarded dwelling. The unusual fenestration of one end wall, with a four-paned hinged sash fit into each of the eight openings, reflects the location of built-in closets and cabinets, which were lit by the small windows. Above the elaborate front entrance, with its double doors with arcaded upper panels, Massie's cursive initials, “HM,” embellish the tracery of a delicately ornamented fanlight.