Ingalls House (De Smet, South Dakota) — Attraction in De Smet

I have made many posts in the past about our travels, but this is one of my favorites. If you have read any of the books or not, this piece of pioneer history will bring the past to life! The house here, preserved to the best original state that could be, is a wonder in itself of how the Ingalls' lived after they left the homestead a mile or so away. The simple way of living and the sheer determination of this family to make a home in a time of uncertainty is, in itself, uplifting just to walk through and try to imagine. The staff were some of the friendliest people and the tour guide was not only informative but had such a wonderful disposition about her, that it was almost like being led around by a sister. My hats off to the whole of whomever keeps this place going for the history of the state, the city and the fans of the...

It was so neat seeing the last house that Charles Ingalls built. He, his wife, Mary, Carrie, and Grace lived in this house. The stairs he built are crazy! I wonder how many times people fell down them? Especially with those long dresses on. They have outside steps to go to second floor. You are not allowed to use the inside steps, good thing. To tour it it is part of a multi building tour. Go to the Laura Ingalls welcome house that is next door to the surveyor's house. I can't remember price of tickets and I don't think you can...

I've read the Little House books so many times, I feel like Laura and her family are dear friends. And getting to see some places she lived was honestly a dream come true!

You'll see the Surveyor's House, De Smet's first school, a replica of the Brewster school, and the last house Pa built. Our guide was very knowledgeable and even though I've read extensively on Laura's life, she gave us some tidbits that were new to me. The museum is small but mighty. Such a great experience for any...