Yes, Almanzo Wilder experienced partial paralysis as a result of a serious illness in 1888. Both he and his wife, Laura Ingalls Wilder, contracted diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection that was common—and often deadly—in the 19th century.
While Laura’s case was relatively mild, Almanzo’s was far more severe, and he developed complications that resulted in temporary partial paralysis, especially in his legs. These complications were most likely due to diphtheritic neuropathy, a condition that damages the nerves and muscles following a serious infection.
Although Almanzo eventually recovered enough to resume daily activities, he was left with lasting physical impairments, including:
Chronic muscle weakness, especially in his legs
Persistent mobility issues
A lifelong need to use a cane to assist with walking
The illness changed his life permanently. Almanzo had been known as a strong, skilled horseman and farmer in his younger years, but after diphtheria, the intense physical labor required on a prairie farm became increasingly difficult.
Why the Wilders Left De Smet
Due in large part to Almanzo’s declining health and physical limitations, Laura and Almanzo left De Smet, South Dakota, in 1890. They hoped that relocating to a warmer climate and starting fresh elsewhere would improve his condition.
They briefly lived in Spring Valley, Minnesota, with Almanzo’s family
Then tried to settle in Florida, which offered a warmer climate but was ultimately not the right fit
Eventually, they returned to De Smet for a short time
Finally, in 1894, the Wilders relocated to Mansfield, Missouri, where they purchased land that would become Rocky Ridge Farm. The move marked the beginning of a new, more stable chapter in their lives. Despite his disability, Almanzo adapted and continued to farm to the best of his ability—with help from Laura and later from their daughter, Rose Wilder Lane.
Almanzo’s Illness in the TV Show Little House on the Prairie
In the Little House on the Prairie television series, Almanzo’s illness is portrayed as a stroke, not diphtheria. This change was likely made to help modern viewers better understand the nature of his condition, as diphtheria had become rare by the time the show aired thanks to widespread vaccination programs.
Although dramatized differently, the show still accurately reflects Almanzo’s struggle with a debilitating illness and the long-term impact it had on his health and his marriage to Laura.
