The Henry C and Wilhemina Bruening House is an excellent example of a Craftsman style home, containing many typical characteristics such as wide overhanging eaves, exposed rafter tails and simple yet decorative woodwork, all constructed of materials common to the region. This property is nominated under Criteria C for structures that embody the distinctive characteristics of type, period, and method of construction.... Built in 1910, the home retains its historical integrity, and both the interior and exterior are in excellent condition. In addition, the history of the house provides a valuable glimpse into the German American community in this region during the early 20th Century. The original owners, Henry C Bruening and his wife Wilhemina; the architect, Wenzel H Fritsche; and the builder, Theodore E Kraeft, were all of German heritage. The house is located in the Piedmont subdivision of the Albina Community where many middle-to-upper class families, including a large community of German immigrants, moved during the Progressive Era between 1891-1913. - NRHP, 7 October 2004

Architect - Wenzel H Fritsche

In addition, the Bruening house is an important example of the Craftsman style because it is the only structure known designed by the architect, Wenzel H Fritsche. Because of this, and because Mr Fritsche practiced in the Portland area for only eight years, this home provides an important contribution to our understanding of the Craftsman style. Mr Fritsche is listed as an architect in the Portland City Directory from 1905-1913. He lived at 90 E 43rd and worked at 1153 Belmont Street. In 1914 he was listed as President and Treasurer of Photo Zincograph Company, Photo Engravers and Lithograph Plate Makers, Designers and Illustrators. He disappears from the Portland Directory after 1915 and no obituary records could be found for him in the Oregonian, so it is assumed that he moved away from the area. William J Hawkins surmised that the economic depression of the mid-teens and the impending first world war; with its accompanying prejudice against Germans, might have contributed to Mr Fritsche's leaving architecture and Portland. - NRHP, 7 October 2004