The William Smith House is one of Napa's most prominent examples of residential architecture from the late 19th century. It is one of the few Second Empire buildings in Napa.

Coupled with its setting of century-old trees, original hitching post and generous lot and setback, the residence looks much as it did when constructed circa 1875.

The Second Empire style was considered very modern during the late 19th century because it imitated the latest French building fashions. The style was popular in America between 1860 and 1880, especially in the northeastern and midwestern states. It was less common on the west coast.

Source: Adapted from the NRHP nomination submitted in 1995.