This Craftsman Bungalow was constructed in the early 1920’s during Boise’s “Streetcar Suburb” period of growth. It features a low-pitched gabled roof with wide overhanging eaves, exposed rafters, and substantial knee braces that define its horizontal emphasis. The symmetrical façade centers on a recessed entry flanked by grouped casement windows and square porch piers with tapered upper posts resting on broad stucco bases. A prominent shed dormer with multi-light windows provides balance and light to the upper story. The mix of narrow clapboard siding, contrasting trim, and a substantial red brick chimney on the south elevation express the Craftsman ideal of handcraft and honest material use. Popularized in the
early twentieth century through pattern books and builders’ catalogs, the Craftsman Bungalow represented a democratic vision of domestic architecture on Harrison Boulevard, emphasizing simplicity, craftsmanship, and harmony with the landscape.
In 1923, a building permit was issued to James R. Courtney for a 4-room frame dwelling at 1919 Harrison, with construction estimated to cost $4,000. James served as a Democratic delegate for the Ada County convention in 1922 and in 1931, was the manager of Branson’s Auction House. By 1932, the Martin family had taken residence in the bungalow, with Mrs. J.F. Martin noted in the Idaho Statesman’s society pages as hosting a dessert bridge party for a local Mother’s Club. In 1936, she and her husband Frank were noted as hosting an evening wedding for Miss Emma Fay Crawford and John C. Flick, with “a candlelight ceremony at an improvised altar in front of the fireplace, which was banked with ferns, pink roses, and sweet peas. Urns of white Italian pottery were placed on either side of the altar and filled with pink and white peonies. The altar was lighted with a crystal candelabrum, filled with pink tapers, which was placed on the mantle with matching candlesticks at either end. Mrs. Miles Darling played the piano during the ceremony. The bride wore a gown of white silk chiffon with a floor-length veil of white tulle, and carried a bouquet of pink roses and white sweet peas.”
This home was on PI’s 2025 Heritage Homes Tour