The Mason House Bed & Breakfast Inn in historic Bentonsport, Iowa, is nestled on the banks of the beautiful Des Moines River. (Bentonsport is one of the Van Buren County villages that were among Iowa’s very first settlements.) The Mason House Inn is a fine bed and breakfast in the heart of the Midwest. Today, the tradition continues with your hosts, the Hansons. The Mason House was built in 1846 to serve steamboat travelers going from St. Louis to Des Moines. It was constructed by Mormon craftsmen who stayed in Bentonsport three years while making their famous trek to Utah. Travelers received quality hosting then, and that tradition continues today. In 1989 the inn underwent extensive refurbishing. This included remodeling an old railroad station and connecting it to the Mason House, providing for ground level accommodations with separate entrances, king size beds, and private baths. Guests are invited to use every room ~ and enjoy! In 2006, a caboose was added to the property and is now a Cottage. It has a full kitchen, bathroom with shower, a queen bed, a TV in the bedroom, and a private porch facing the river. Perfect for a romantic getaway! There’s a cookie jar in every room. Each of the nine guestrooms has a private bath with shower. Full Country Breakfast at the hour of your choice is served in the Main House dining room. Private Romantic Cottage Available. Murder Mystery Weekends. Ghost hunting classes. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms. Special dietary concerns can be accommodated, please mention at the time you make your reservation. There are many antique and craft shops near the inn. The village has a variety of both, including a pottery and blacksmith shop. Shops in Bentonsport are open April through November. The owners will be glad to direct you to other activities within an hour’s drive. The wild night-life in Bentonsport consists mainly of owls, bald eagles, and frogs, along the lazy Des Moines River. However, they would be happy to recommend several nice restaurants within a few miles. The Mason House is excellent for small retreats, family reunions and business seminars (24 maximum). Come see us at the Mason House Inn, the oldest steamboat hotel on the Des Moines River.