During Markleeville's rollicking youth, the town had few amenities, but like most respectable pioneer towns it had a hurdy house on this plot. Built circa 1863, Markleeville's Hurdy House gave the predominantly male population a chance to unwind with a drink and possibly procure a dancing partner for the evening. In its heyday, the house was open every night, featured lively dancing girls, and offered reasonable drink prices, with patrons charged 4 bits for a dance with one of the girls. The reason for the Hurdy House's demise is not yet known, but despite its short life, it remains part of Markleeville's history.