The Dousman Inn was an important stopping place on a major westward artery on the migration route into Wisconsin. It was a half day's travel west of Milwaukee. Immigrants and travelers stopped at the inn for rest, refreshment and entertainment.

Michael Dousman- although living in Mackinac, Michigan- speculated in real estate and development schemes in Wisconsin. The Dousman family built the inn as part of an extensive farming operation as the Watertown Plank Road became a major east-west route. Micahel Dousman's heirs sold the building in 1854 just as railroads began to compete for stagecoach traffic.

Like many stagecoach inns, Dousman Inn was built in the Greek Revival style, projecting an image of refinement and elegance on the frontier. It exhibits cornice returns, a frieze with attic windows and pilasters. The doorway flanked by two windows and framed by a heavy lintel is typical of Greek Revival. The interior consists of a central stairway and hall flanked with two rooms on each side. The sleeping chambers are located on the second story. The ballroom in the attic features built-in benches that line the north and south walls.

The building has been relocated and is now the used by the Elmbrook Historical Society as an historical museum and meeting place. It is open during regular hours.