De Smet, South Dakota Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society

De Smet, South Dakota Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society in De Smet, South Dakota, is dedicated to preserving the rich history and legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family. Established in 1957, the society strives to educate the public about the Ingalls family’s life and experiences, as well as maintain and preserve the historical sites that played an essential role in their story.

At the heart of the society’s efforts is the Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Museum. This museum is home to numerous artifacts and exhibits showcasing the Ingalls and Wilder families’ lives, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore their daily experiences and the world that inspired Laura’s writing. Among the notable artifacts on display are the original Surveyor’s House, the Ingalls family home in town, and a room dedicated to Laura’s daughter, Rose Wilder Lane.

The society also organizes a variety of events and activities throughout the year to further engage visitors and celebrate the Ingalls family’s story. One of the most popular events is the annual Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, an outdoor theatrical production that brings to life scenes from the Little House on the Prairie books. This family-friendly event showcases the pioneer spirit and provides an entertaining and educational experience for fans of all ages.

In addition to the pageant, the society hosts other events such as lectures, workshops, and special exhibits, offering visitors numerous opportunities to delve deeper into the world of the Ingalls family. These events often feature guest speakers, historians, and authors who share their expertise and provide fascinating insights into the historical context of the Little House on the Prairie series.

For those interested in learning more about the Ingalls family’s life in De Smet, guided tours of the historic homes are available, offering an in-depth look at the family’s living conditions and the challenges they faced during their time in the town. These tours provide visitors with a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Ingalls family and gain a deeper appreciation for their experiences.

Overall, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society in De Smet, South Dakota, plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family. Through its museum, events, and educational initiatives, the society ensures that the Ingalls family’s story continues to inspire and captivate fans for generations to come.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society, Inc.
P.O Box 426
De Smet, SD 57231
Phone 1-800-880-3383
Fax 1-605-854-3064

Admission:
Adults $7.00
Children $4.00
Admission is by guided tour only, so please allow a minimum of 2 hours to complete the tour of the two original homes and to visit the Discover Laura Center.

Hours:
April – May: 9am – 4pm; Monday through Saturday
June, July & August: 9am – 6pm; 7 days a week
September & October: 9am – 4pm; Monday through Saturday
November through March: 9am – 4pm; Monday through Friday

Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant
Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant Society
Box 154 De Smet, SD 57231
Telephone: 1-800-880-3383 or 1-800-776-3594

Admission:
Tickets: Adults $7.00, Children, $4.00
Pageant Performances Outdoors at 9:00 p.m.
Gates open at 7:00 p.m.