Can you believe it? It’s been 50 years since the first episode of Little House on the Prairie aired on our television screens, introducing the world to the Ingalls family and the small town of Walnut Grove. Half a century!
As I sit down to reflect on this incredible milestone, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, nostalgia, and a deep sense of pride for what Little House has come to mean to so many.
When I first stepped into the role of Laura Ingalls, I had no idea how much my life was about to change. I was just a young girl, excited to be a part of this new show set in the late 1800s. From the first time I put on my calico dress, bonnet and boots that I needed a real button hook to wear, I felt transported to another time and place—a simpler, yet challenging world where family, love, and perseverance were at the heart of everything. Everything seemed so real and so true. It was the greatest game of ‘dress-up’ anyone ever got to play.
I had no idea at that time, that this role would become a defining part of my life and an important symbol of American television.
There’s a reason for that. Little House on the Prairie was more than just a TV show; it was, and still is, a beacon of light and hope. It brings families together in their living rooms, offering them stories filled with love, hardship, and the importance of doing the right thing. The themes of individual episodes tacking important issues like, racism, nativism, drug addiction, violence against women and children, and antisemitism to name a few. The values of Little House, family, community, love, tolerance and acceptance resonated with audiences then, and they continue to resonate today. I think that's why Little House has stood the test of time—it speaks to universal truths that are just as relevant now as they were in Laura Ingalls Wilder's time.
One of the things I cherish most about Little House is the sense of family the whole cast and crew still feel for each other. We truly were a family on set. Michael Landon, who played Pa, was not only a father figure to me but also a mentor, guide and dear friend. His laughter, wisdom, and kindness were the glue that held us together. The bond I shared with Karen Grassle (Ma), my sisters on the show, and the entire cast and crew and their families was genuine, and it remains strong to this day. These relationships shaped who I am, both as an actress and as a person.
Over the years, fans have shared countless stories with me about how Little House touched their lives. I’ve heard from people who found comfort in the show during difficult times, who saw themselves in Laura’s spunk and determination, or who were inspired by the Ingalls family's resilience. Those letters and conversations have meant the world to me. They remind me that Little House was more than just entertainment—it was a source of strength, encouragement, and moral guidance.
As we celebrate this 50th anniversary, I am struck by how the themes of Little House remain relevant. The world has changed in so many ways, yet the need for compassion, integrity, and love endures. In a time where we are often divided, the lessons of Walnut Grove—kindness, community, and the power of family—are more important than ever. I believe that’s why new generations continue to discover and fall in love with the show.
To our wonderful fans, thank you.
Thank you for welcoming us into your homes, for sharing your lives with us, and for keeping the spirit of Little House alive. Your love and support have been the driving force behind the show's enduring legacy. Every time I meet a fan or hear a story about how Little House has impacted someone's life, my heart swells with joy and gratitude.
While it’s been 50 years, the heart of Little House continues to beat strong. I’m excited to see how future generations will connect with the show, find meaning in its stories, and carry its messages forward. Whether through reruns, new adaptations, or simply sharing the love of Little House with their children and grandchildren, the spirit of the Ingalls family lives on.
Here's to 50 years of laughter, tears, and the simple joys of life.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Here’s to many more years of Little House on the Prairie and the lessons it continues to teach us.
With oceans of love and gratitude,
31 comments
I have loved and appreciated the show since the early-mid 70’s here in MN. I have watched from the very first one when I had to skip my college classes to quick run home to watch it. No recorder in those days. :-) I have been watching reruns every since. Still do, at almost 74 yrs old. It has been so much fun to watch each character grow and bloom, there was always some lesson to be learned along with laughter, sadness and just all around great family entertainment. It has always been my favorite number 1 show since it began. My friends and family think I’m funny because I still watch the show. I can even recite the lines before they are said. :-) I Still cry during certain scenes. it was so very sad when it ended. Following a show for so long one begins to feel part of the “Little House” family. It was the best! Always will be! Thank you Melissa for the wonderful memories. I will always cherish them in my heart.
Thank you, Melissa, from the bottom of my heart. I came from a divorced family and was often alone after school at home until my mother came home from work. I would watch Little House on the Prairie nearly every day! Laura Ingles kept me company. I turned 50 this year and started re-watching the show which I haven’t watched in nearly 4 decades. It actually brings tears to my eyes seeing all those episodes I loved and forgot all about! I love your new 50th anniversary collection and wish I could afford the whole thing! I’m looking forward to my pie plate and pie plate carrier! I love baking pies, and this will be so nostalgic for me. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart!
Oops, that 2nd “Ohio” was supposed to say Michigan. 😳
Now I cannot stop thinking of how Laura “accidentally pushed Nellie into the pond!”
The first books i read completely on my own after my mother taught me how to read out of the large family Bible were The Little House Books. I watched every episode I could as a child. Once in a while I find one that I didn’t remember so clearly and what a pleasant fun it is.
Living in Ohio whilst my daughter and grand girls in Ohio can be difficult. Sometimes my daughter will read a chapter from Ingalls’ books aloud to the girls at bedtime and I listen by ear across the miles as I clean. Thank you for making this forum where we can reach out and share good reminiscence as we encourage one another to keep the old virtues stoked.
My uncle John Starkey worked on the Little House set for many years. He cared for the horses, I remember him showing me a belt buckle that Michael gave all the staff/workers with a picture of the Engells house on the front and a thank you from Michael Landon on the back. Very special to my family.