The Ryan Residence was one of many residential buildings erected in the aftermath of the Great Saint John Fire of 1877, and provides a good if slightly unusual example of the Italianate style seen in most of the reconstruction-era buildings.

Whereas most of its contemporaries were made out of brick, this two-storey residence is built from wood. Its most prominent feature is the two-storey bay windows, with a four-window set on each storey. The first storey had rounded Roman arch openings, while the second has semi-octagonal openings. The building also has an attractive off-center entrance with a fan light and decorative pilasters and entablature.

Various families and individuals have lived in the building throughout the years, but it is most closely associated with the Ryan Family, who occupied it for roughly 60 years. It was originally purchased by John Ryan in 1921, and was passed onto his daughter Helen following his death. Helen, who was a clerk with National Revenue, lived here until the 1980s.