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Step Back In Time At Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Home

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by Eloisa Almaguer

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Have you ever wanted to step into the pages of a beloved book? Visiting Laura Ingalls Wilder's home in Mansfield, Missouri, offers just that chance. This charming town lets you experience the life of the famous author who wrote the "Little House" series. Wander through the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum where you can see her original manuscripts, personal items, and even the house she lived in. It's like walking through history, seeing how she lived and what inspired her stories. Perfect for fans of all ages, this destination brings literature to life in a way that’s both educational and fun.

Discover the World of Laura Ingalls Wilder

Laura Ingalls Wilder's books have enchanted readers for generations. Her stories of pioneer life offer a glimpse into a simpler time. Visiting the places she lived brings those tales to life. Here are some must-see spots for fans of her work.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum

This museum in Mansfield, Missouri, is where Laura wrote her famous "Little House" books. The site includes her home, a museum, and a gift shop. It’s a treasure trove for any fan.

  1. Rocky Ridge Farm: Laura and her husband Almanzo built this farmhouse. It’s where she penned her beloved series.
  2. Museum: Displays include original manuscripts, family photos, and personal items.
  3. Rock House: A stone house built by their daughter Rose. Laura and Almanzo lived here for a few years.

Pepin, Wisconsin: Birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder

Pepin is where Laura's story began. The town celebrates her legacy with a replica cabin and an annual festival.

  1. Little House Wayside: A replica of the Ingalls' log cabin, built near the original site.
  2. Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum: Exhibits include pioneer artifacts and Laura’s personal items.
  3. Laura Ingalls Wilder Days: An annual festival with activities, crafts, and historical reenactments.

Walnut Grove, Minnesota: On the Banks of Plum Creek

Walnut Grove is the setting for "On the Banks of Plum Creek." The town offers several attractions related to Laura’s life.

  1. Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum: Features exhibits on Laura’s life and the history of Walnut Grove.
  2. Plum Creek: Visit the actual creek where Laura and her family lived.
  3. Wilder Pageant: An outdoor drama that brings Laura’s stories to life every summer.

De Smet, South Dakota: The Little Town on the Prairie

De Smet is where the Ingalls family settled for good. Many of Laura’s books are set here, making it a key destination for fans.

  1. Surveyors’ House: The oldest building in De Smet, where the Ingalls family spent their first winter.
  2. Ingalls Homestead: Experience pioneer life with activities like covered wagon rides and hay twisting.
  3. De Smet Cemetery: The final resting place of several Ingalls family members.

Independence, Kansas: Little House on the Prairie

Independence is the setting for Laura’s book "Little House on the Prairie." The town has a replica cabin and other attractions.

  1. Little House on the Prairie Museum: A replica of the Ingalls' cabin, along with a schoolhouse and post office.
  2. Prairie Days: An annual event with pioneer activities, crafts, and historical reenactments.
  3. Historic Sites: Visit the original locations mentioned in Laura’s books.

Burr Oak, Iowa: A Brief Stay

Burr Oak is a lesser-known stop in Laura’s journey. The family lived here briefly, but it’s still worth a visit.

  1. Masters Hotel: The only childhood home of Laura’s that remains on its original site.
  2. Burr Oak Museum: Offers tours of the hotel and exhibits on Laura’s time in Burr Oak.
  3. Laura Days: An annual celebration with activities, crafts, and historical reenactments.

Spring Valley, Minnesota: Another Chapter

Spring Valley is another place where the Ingalls family lived for a short time. It offers a glimpse into their life during this period.

  1. Spring Valley Methodist Church Museum: The church the Ingalls family attended, now a museum.
  2. Wilder House: A house where Almanzo’s family lived, now a museum with exhibits on the Wilder family.
  3. Historical Society: Offers tours and information on the Ingalls’ time in Spring Valley.

Final Glimpse of De Smet

De Smet, South Dakota, offers a unique peek into Laura Ingalls Wilder's world. Visiting her home, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The Ingalls Homestead brings history to life with hands-on activities and tours. Strolling through the Wilder Museum, you’ll see artifacts that tell stories of pioneer life. The De Smet Cemetery holds the final resting places of the Ingalls family, adding a personal touch to your visit.

This small town, rich in history, provides a perfect getaway for fans of the "Little House" series and history buffs alike. Whether you’re exploring the homestead, museum, or cemetery, De Smet offers a memorable experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the charm and history of De Smet. You won’t regret it!