Little House on the Prairie History

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House books have captured the imaginations and hearts of multiple generations. This History section showcases Wilder's evolving legacy across multiple subjects and audiences. You’ll find a range of information focused on her work, life, and family. Browse the articles below or click here for a complete index.

About Caroline “Carrie” Ingalls Swanzey

Carrie Ingalls, born Caroline Celestia Ingalls on August 3, 1870 to Charles (“Pa”) and Caroline (“Ma”) Ingalls, is best known as the younger sister of Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the Little House on the Prairie books. Carrie is only a baby in the first book, Little House in the Big Woods, but her presence…

Profile about Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes in De Smet, South Dakota

Today we are excited to bring you an in-depth look at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes in De Smet, South Dakota. This is part of our on-going series highlighting popular historic locations and sites related to Little House on the Prairie. If you are in the area during the summer, you will want to…

Pioneer Kitchen Gardens: How the Pioneers Planned and Planted

For many of us, gardening is a hobby or even a passion. But there are many people leading perfectly satisfying lives without ever having a garden. It hasn’t always been this way. Gardening is depicted as a normal facet of life in the “Little House on the Prairie” television show and book series, because each…

To Read and Write and Cipher

In On the Banks of Plum Creek, Laura is reluctant to go to school for the first time, but Pa tells her she should appreciate the opportunity: “…it isn’t everybody that gets a chance to learn to read and write and cipher,” he says. Pa explains that education is important to the family. “Your Ma…

Pa’s Fiddle: Now Is Now

When Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote the final scene in her last Little House book for young readers, she gave the closing lines to Pa’s fiddle and its music. Laura and Almanzo’s wedding day has come to a close and the young couple sits on the doorstep of their own little house. In her memory, Laura…

Grown-Up Laura Ingalls Wilder Party

There are many different kinds of Laura fans. No matter what their specific interest, most fans love to “play Laura.” What better way to play Laura than with a party? There are several different ways to theme a Laura party. Today we’re going to look at how to host a Bring Your Own Bonnet party,…