Edward Townsend had a prominent career in Cedar Falls as a banker, lumber company owner, Mayor, school board member, County Supervisor, State Senator and Iowa State Normal School Trustee. He built this house during the 1878 - 1884 period, after the death of his wife. They had previously lived in the Knapp-Townsend House at 224 West Third Street.

Inside, the house features eleven foot ceilings, parquet floors, fireplaces in nearly every room, a walnut staircase, and elaborate door knobs and hinges. A stained glass window overlooks the staircase, and hand blown glass is found in the windows throughout the house. The interior shutters are original, as is the intercom system from the maid's quarters to the master bedroom. The house had been remodeled to include an upstairs apartment, and has served as a bed and breakfast. It is currently a private residence.