Until the completion of the Yaraha River Parkway in 1906, the Yahara River meandered through a broad marshy area separating Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. Confining the Yahara to a channel allowed the surrounding wetland to be drained and filled. Development of the Marquette Bungalows Historic District began on this former wetland in 1924 with the formation of the Karrels Realty and Building Development Company, which operated as both realtor and builder. The company constructed all but two the houses in the neighborhood.

The Marquette Bungalows Historic District holds Madison's largest concentration of Craftsman style bungalows. Typical characteristics of this style include a prominent roof with exposed rafters, front and/or side dormers, bay windows, and a front porch. This neighborhood of small, primarily one-and-one-half story dwellings displays a cohesiveness of design, although none of the houses are identical. A variety of architectural details adds visual interest and an aesthetically pleasing effect to the neighborhood.

Two of the best examples of the Craftsman style are the Daniel W. and Francis Holland house and the George W. and Edith Linck house. The Holland house at 624 South Thorton Avenue was built in 1925. It is one of three brick-veneered houses in the district. The house boasts a prominent hip roof with jerkin-headed side dormers and a small, eyebrow front dormer. The Linck house at 1512 Rutledge Street was built in 1926. It features a front gable with gabled side dormers, and a polygonal bay window with a battered brick-veneered base.

The houses in this district a private residences, please respect the privacy of the occupants.