Building History
The building was originally built in 1869 as a Methodist Church on the block south of Central Community School (then the Elkader Public School), standing as a white frame church and schoolhouse. In 1898, it was moved to its present site closer to downtown to prevent any local taverns from opening up as the city had an ordinance prohibiting taverns within so many feet of a church. Local legend has it the move took three weeks to go the two blocks with the aid of a team of horses and a “jack”. The building was stuck in the mud for a week, one half block away from its destination.
In 1906 the building became the Frieden's Evangelical church, and a brick veneer was installed. The building was sold in 1928, however it stood in the appearance of a church until the late 1950's. Many people and businesses made their home in the building over the next 40 years, including government offices, family physicians, and apartments. The previous owners purchased the property in 2003 as apartments and Cedar St. Suites came to fruition in 2006. Gradually, they have restored the building to proper honor with the desire for many people to enjoy the peacefulness and simplicity of the building. Lastly, Trevor & Kaitie purchased in 2024 to continue to offer a home away from home stay.
