Architecturally, the homes at 417 and 421 represent a transitional style that post-dated the 19th century styles of Queen Anne and Neo-classical but pre-dated the popular use of Colonial Revival. Instead, these two homes can be classified as territorial, with a blend of classical features, arched openings, and distinctive brick work. This home, built in 1908, features a centrally located, classical entryway topped by a Palladian window. It was constructed by Dr. and Mrs. Andreas D. Johannes.

The home was later occupied by Walter M. Harrison, a colorful journalist who served as managing editor of the Daily Oklahoman and the Oklahoma City Times from 1916 to 1946. Best known as “Skipper”, Walter was born in 1888 in Kentucky and moved to Oklahoma City in 1916. He capped his career with several terms on the city council (1949-1957)and the publication of several books including his autobiography Me and My Big Mouth. Harrison was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Class of 1938. He died in 1961.

In 1963 the home was purchased by Mrs. A.S. (Eva) Nuckolls and her son, Alvin S. Nuckolls, Jr. Eva was born August 23, 1887, in Moulton, Alabama. Her family moved to Shawnee, Oklahoma in 1896. Eva worked for Pioneer Telephone Company and for the Mammoth Department Store. In 1919 she married Alvin S. Nuckolls, Sr. Their son, Alvin, Jr., was born September 5, 1920, in Shawnee. He graduated from Rice with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1943.

Before Eva and Alvin moved in, they updated the plumbing, added central heat and air conditioning, and generally remodeled. Eva moved to a smaller house in 1969 while Alvin and his new wife, Carolyn, remained in the home.

Alvin, Jr. had a long career in the oil well drilling business. He died October 16, 2011, and Carolyn died August 20, 2015.

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