Canadian carpenter Alfred E. Milton built this classic Craftsman style bungalow circa 1909. Alfred may have selected the design from a home plan catalog offered by companies like Sears & Roebuck or Aladdin Homes. Narrow clapboard siding, exposed rafter tails in the eaves, and shingle siding in the gable end reflect typical pattern book Craftsman style details. In 1916, Alfred and wife Inez established the “I. O. U. a Good Time Club” in the home. The club existed to host picnic dances in the summer and dancing parties in the winter. Inez also supported the temperance movement, aimed at prohibiting alcoholic beverage sales. Otto and Boletta Marken purchased the home in 1922. Otto and business partners Ray and George Robbin operated a downtown clothing store until 1928. When a fire destroyed their stock, Otto opened the Marken Clothing store, which he operated until 1953. Otto and Boletta were active members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. As a dedicated community booster, Otto was also a charter member of the Kalispell Kiwanis Club and served twelve years on the city council. Boletta died in 1972. Otto remained in residence until his death in 1976.
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