There have been hotels at this strategic location since 1853. The nearby mills, river crossings and business district made it an ideal location for travelers and tradesmen passing through town.

The original hotel on this site, the Winslow House, was a two-story brick building. It was Cedar Falls' third true hotel, competing with houses owned by E. D. Adams (1850) and J. F. Jacquith (1853).

The Winslow was sold in 1858 to J. O. Carter, who renamed it the Carter House. Carter remodeled the original building, adding a third story.

The Carter House was torn down in the 1870's, and the Burr House was built in its place. Later, the hotel was sold to a group of Cedar Falls businessmen who removed the ornamental iron balconies, enlarged the building, and renamed it the Black Hawk Hotel.