The house was built in 1854 for Thomas Nesbit Wilson to the design of Wharton & Burns, architects. Wilson was a grain and produce merchant, and in 1863 he advertised “Potatoes. Good examples, in quantities to suit purchasers. T.N. Wilson, corner Lonsdale and Spencer Streets.” In 1862 Wilson built a six room brick house next door, on the corner of Powlett Street (now demolished). He lived there until his death at the age of 88 in 1908. At the time of his death No. 115 was described as having nine rooms, a kitchen, a slate roof and three very small rooms. It was let from the time it was built. Originally it was known as Allanton House but by 1867 the name had been corrupted to Allington. The name is a useful clue in an ambiguous 1882 advertisement in the 'Tutors, Governesses, Clerks, &c' column, which reads:
'GRADUATE, honourmen, experienced, COACHES, matriculation, laws, articled clerks. Allington-house, Grey street, East Melbourne.'

Henry McDonough, who next owned the house, was also a grain and produce merchant, with a large warehouse and business at 516-518 Flinders Street. The property was one of many he owned in the city, East Melbourne and other inner suburbs(including the house on the south-east corner of Albert and Powlett Streets). During his ownership the house continued to be rented, while he and his family lived at Tara, 263 Victoria Parade (now demolished).