1860 - Originally just a frame structure, the building was constructed as the Amana Hotel. It contained a kitchen and dining room which served meals to travelers.
1883 - When the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad reached Amana traffic increased considerably.
1884 - The increase in business due to the railroad made it necessary for the building to be expanded. The brick portion of the building was added on.
The Amana Hotel became a stop over for many early travelers.
1932 - The Great Change took place. After which the Amana Society sold the Amana Hotel and the name was changed to Colony Inn.
After 1932 - The Colony Inn was the first restaurant to open under private ownership to the general public.
The buildings physical characteristics have been preserved as nearly as possible to this day.
Source: The Colony Inn: History
