How Old Was Laura Ingalls Wilder When She Married Almanzo?
Laura Ingalls Wilder was 18 years old when she married Almanzo Wilder, who was 28 at the time. Their wedding took place on August 25, 1885, near De Smet, South Dakota, and is tenderly portrayed in the final chapters of her book These Happy Golden Years.
The ten-year age difference between Laura and Almanzo was not uncommon for the time, especially in rural communities where courtship often began earlier and marriage was seen as a practical step toward building a home and future together.
Laura and Almanzo’s relationship developed gradually over several years. Their romance began in earnest while Laura was still teaching school and earning money to help send her sister Mary to college. Almanzo often drove Laura home from her schoolhouse each weekend, enduring harsh weather and long distances just to give her time with her family.
Though Laura was initially hesitant about marriage, her trust and affection for Almanzo deepened. Their courtship was marked by mutual respect, shared values, and quiet companionship, which Laura captured beautifully in her writing.
Was 18 Considered Young to Marry?
By today’s standards, 18 might seem young to marry, but in the late 19th century, it was quite typical—especially in pioneer communities. Many young women married between the ages of 16 and 20, particularly if they had already taken on adult responsibilities such as teaching or managing a household.
Laura had already taught multiple school terms, earned her own income, and helped support her family. By the time she married Almanzo, she was considered a capable and mature young woman by both societal standards and her own experience.
The Start of a New Chapter
After their wedding, Laura and Almanzo moved into a small house on Almanzo’s claim, beginning the life they had long dreamed of building together. Their early married years, which were marked by hardship, illness, and loss, are chronicled in The First Four Years, published posthumously in 1971.
Despite the challenges, their love and partnership endured, and the couple later settled in Mansfield, Missouri, where they built Rocky Ridge Farm and lived out the rest of their lives together.
