In the Little House books, Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about living in Wisconsin, Indian Territory (which became Kansas), Minnesota (though never named), and Dakota Territory (which became South Dakota). However, Laura Ingalls Wilder died and was buried in an entirely different state.
Where is Laura Ingalls Wilder Buried?
Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder eventually settled down in Mansfield, Missouri. Almanzo died in 1949. Laura died on February 10, 1957. Laura and Almanzo are buried in the public cemetery in Mansfield, Missouri. They share a headstone.
Please note: Based on my research, I do not think the birth year on the headstone is accurate for Almanzo Wilder. I've talked to multiple Wilder experts who agree with me.
Laura and Almanzo's daughter, Rose Wilder Lane, is buried next to them.
If you visit Mansfield, Missouri, you'll want to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum, of course. It includes three buildings: the home Laura and Almanzo built, the Rock House which Rose built for them, and the museum. You can see my pictures and read my thoughts about the buildings here. The houses have guided tours, and the museum is small and self-guided. You'll only need about four hours to do it all. (And if possible, walk to the Rock House!) With extra time you have, you'll want to visit the library, the Square downtown, and the Mansfield Cemetery.
Once at the Mansfield Cemetery, look for the green "Wilder Graves" sign (as seen above) to point you in the general direction. A fence distinguishes these graves.
As much as I like photographs which allow me to read a headstone, sometimes seeing it in context of the larger cemetery is also appreciated. If you can't get to Mansfield, I hope you liked these.
You can read more about the real lives of Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder throughout this blog as well as in my book The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion: A Chapter-by-Chapter Guide.
Annette Whipple writes nonfiction books for children, including The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion: A Chapter-by-Chapter Guide which includes history, discussion, photographs, and 75 activities so readers can "live like Laura." Learn more about her books and presentations at www.AnnetteWhipple.com.
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