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Constructed in 1916, the Jenne Block embodies both architectural and historical significance. The building was originally constructed and owned by pioneer Douglas citizen Jacob Jenne. Jenne was a successful and influential Converse County sheep rancher and businessman in the early part of the twentieth century. In 1915 Jenne purchased the lot at the southeast corner of Third and Center Street for $3,500, and in the following year he financed the construction of this ornate business block.

The profuse use of terra cotta design elements reflects the prosperity of its owner and enhanced the building's appearance as an edifice worthy of the financial institutions and professional offices it contained. The Jenne Block is historically significant for the important role it has played as a locus of business in Douglas for over eighty years. The Jenne Block served as a bank and office building as well as the home of the Douglas Enterprise newspaper for several decades in the early twentieth century. Many of the businesses contained in the Jenne Block were important participants in the economic affairs of Douglas and rural Converse County.