The Martin House, built in 1892, is one of the finest examples of early Irvington residential development.  The home was built in the Queen Anne Victorian Architectural Style popular at the end of the 19th century.  While this house has changed hands many times, few exterior changes have been made and many original interior details, fixtures, and hardware are original.  Details include several Povey Brothers Stained Glass windows, decorated door and cabinet hardware, original 3” Douglas fir floors and original millwork and moldings. 

George and Hannah Martin built the house in 1892, but were only able to live there for a few years before forced to sell by financial reverses.  After changing hands several times, the house was sold to John B. and Minnie A. Hosford for $5000.  John Hosford was a prominent Portland attorney.  He was born and educated in Ireland and after serving in the military during the Boer War in South Africa, moved to Oregon in July of 1886.  He was admitted to the Oregon bar, practiced law in and around the Salem area and then moved to Portland in 1903, when he purchased the house for his family.  He served as the Chairman of the Republican County Central Committee and is best known for his role as the Assistant Attorney General for the State of Oregon in 1923.