Built in 1880, the house overlooks the Detroit River. In 1980, the Detroit Historical Museum received a grant to initiate the restoration of the Commandant's House at Fort Wayne. The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Michigan agreed to support the project and renovate and furnish the interior.

The house was opened to the public in 1986, but currently is closed. The Victorian furnishings exemplify the Renaissance Revival and Eastlake styles of the late 19th century.