Designed by the architect Thomas R. Kimball of Omaha, Nebraska in 1893, it was constructed by the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad[3] as part of its development program in Wyoming associated with extension of the railway.

[4] Equipped with the first bathtubs and electric lights in that part of Wyoming, the inn was considered the "finest hotel" between Chicago and San Francisco.

[2][4] After condemnation in 1967, the inn was purchased by Neltje Doubleday Kings, who had recently moved to the area from New York City.

The nonprofit organization has restored the entire outside of the building, installed a fire alarm system, and brought the first floor up to ADA standards and city codes.

In 2006 it initiated a capital campaign to raise money for needed structural improvements in a "Core and shell" program, as interior conditions have deteriorated.

Plans are to redevelop upper floors to yield 22 rooms, with the entire facility to be operated as a boutique hotel.