This one and one-half story cross-gable house retains its original plan, but has been completely reclad with asphalt shingles on the roof and replacement siding. The windows have also been replaced with one-over-one sashes. Three small additions expand the house toward the back of the lot. 215 Elmwood Avenue, built circa 1870-73, is typical of the housing built in this working-class neighborhood during the 1860s and 1870s.

Mrs. Charity E. Freeman, an African-Amercan woman and a widow lived in this house from at least 1881 until her death on February 5, 1890. A woman named Mary Thomas also resided here between 1881 and 1885.[1] Little else is known of this property's early history.

[1] Burlington City Directory, 1881-83, 1885, 1890.