The Dacotah House was built on this site in 1859 by Adolph Seiter and Frank Erd, and Adolph's wife, Helena Erd Seiter, soon became known for her skill in the kitchen. During the Dakota Conflict of 1862, Helena fled by wagon with her children to St. Peter, where she is credited with convincing authorities that the outbreak was real, leading to military aid being sent to New Ulm. During the conflict, the Dacotah House served as a refuge and hospital and later became military headquarters. For many years, the Dacotah Hotel was a central gathering place known for its food, hospitality, and renowned visitors. The Seiter and Johnson families operated it until 1948, when it was sold to the Esser family, and Citizens State Bank purchased it in 1968 and ran the hotel until it closed in 1971.