Harlan House Hotel

Harlan House Hotel is a hotel building in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, featuring Italianate architecture with decorative brackets, arched windows, and a mansard roof in its middle section. The structure underwent three expansions, with additions along the side alley and Jefferson Street to accommodate more guests.

James Harlan, the first Republican Senator from Iowa, built the structure in 1857 as his residence. He later converted it to a hotel after facing financial difficulties.

The building connects to President Lincoln's family through Mary Harlan's marriage to Robert Todd Lincoln, the president's only surviving son. This connection made the house a gathering place for the region's prominent families.

The building is located in downtown Mount Pleasant and is clearly visible from the street with its distinctive Italianate features. Visitors can view the exterior architecture and brickwork well from Jefferson Street and surrounding walkways.

Senator James Harlan returned to live in his former residence-turned-hotel in the early 1890s and stayed until his death in 1899. This makes the building a rare example where the original owner experienced his transformed legacy again.

Location: Mount Pleasant

Architectural style: Italianate architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.96758,-91.55408

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:46