The original two-story gabled structure was built in 1869 or 1870 for Dr. John c·. Collier, founder of the Mansfield Male and Female College. The second story was used as the dormitory for the college until its closing in 1889, at which time A.J. Dukes bought the property. Dr. William B. McKnight, a former student at the college and prominent local physician, bought the house in 1909 and remodeled it extensively in 1911 in the Craftsman style. 

The McKnights owned the property until 1944, since which time it has operated as a funeral home. It was remodeled in 1952, when the pedimented portico was added, using columns from a San Antonio house. The building, although severely altered, is significant for its association with Dr. Collier and the Mansfield Male and Female College. 

A state subject marker is located on the property.