In the early 19th century mid-Edo period, the Katsukawa family carried firewood and charcoal to the castle town, returning with salt, needles, and other goods to sell to local residents. The family rose to prominence in the late Edo period (mid-19th century), becoming merchants under the trade name Matsuya and contributing to the finances of the domain. As purveyors to Iwamura domain, they provided financial assistance, and from the end of the Edo period, engaged in financial services, becoming one of the area’s largest landowners.

The Katsukawa residence is a late Edo period two-story wooden building with a study, tearoom, servants’ quarters, and other facilities, allowing visitors to experience life in those days. The warehouse behind the home stored up to 3,000 bales of local tax rice. The detached parlor in the courtyard was built using lumber and roof tiles from Iwamura Castle when it was demolished in accordance with the castle abolition order of the 1870’s.