Burr Oak House/Masters Hotel

The Burr Oak House is a one-and-a-half-story wood frame building with a full-width front porch and raised basement, built in 1856. The structure demonstrates typical mid-19th century construction methods, with practical interior layouts that served both residential and lodging functions.

The site began operating as a lodging house in 1851 with a temporary log structure, then transitioned to this permanent building five years later and operated until 1878. The shift from temporary to permanent construction reflects how the settlement developed more stable infrastructure over time.

The house served as home to the Ingalls family during 1876-1877, when it operated as a gathering place for travelers passing through the area. The building reflects how frontier communities centered around such establishments for lodging, meals, and social connection.

The house is easily accessible and displays rooms arranged as they were during the 19th century, with original furnishings from that period. Visitors should allow time to walk through the different spaces and observe the details of how the building functioned as both home and lodging place.

This building is one of the few surviving hotels from Iowa's pioneer era that has remained in its original location. Its preservation offers rare insight into the early years of hospitality in this region.

Location: Winneshiek County

GPS coordinates: 43.45758,-91.86583

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02