The Potts Residence was built in 1884 on Charlotte Street in Saint John. Like many of the residential buildings constructed in the years immediately following the Great Saint John Fire of 1877, it is exemplary of the Italianate style. This rectangular brick massing features ornamental cornice on the eaves, regular fenestration, and an off-centered bay window.
 
The builders and original owners of the building were Benjamin F. Potts and his wife, Amelia E. Potts. Benjamin had been the collector of tolls in the City Market since 1872. He was also the lessee of the original market building until it was replaced with the current market around 1876. As such, he was a very prominent and respected member of the community. Following Mr. Potts' death in 1889, Mrs. Potts retained ownership of the residence until her own passing in 1924.
 
Additionally, during their occupation of the residence, the Potts family rented out parts of the building for various purposes. The list of tenants included banker and broker D. Carlton Clinch, as well as Freeman W. Wisdom, who operated a steam-fitting business on Dock Street. In 1896, Dr. L.A. McAlpine used his section of the building to host a doctor's office, and in the 1910s, Dr. Ernest R. Sewell ran a dentist's office on the site.