Special Sub-Topic: Charles "Pa" Ingalls Click Here To Play: Charles "Pa" Ingalls

Where was Charles Ingalls born?

New York. He was born in Cuba, New York, on January 11, 1836.

What was his full name?

Charles Phillip Ingalls. Charles was the 3rd of 10 children.

What were his parents names?

Lansford and Laura Ingalls. Laura was named after Charles mother, Laura.

How did Charles meet Caroline, who he later married?

They were neighbors. Caroline's family moved from Connecticut to Wisconsin in the late 1830's. Caroline herself was born in Wisconsin.

Where did Charles build his first "little house"?

Pepin, Wisconsin. Charles bought a farm 7 miles from Pepin. Mary and Laura were born in that little house.

The little Ingalls family had a comfortable life on their farm. Why did Charles sell it?

He was restless and his pioneer urge pushed him to go West. Pioneers were settling in the area and the neighbors were close. Charles didn't like settled country.

What instrument did Charles play?

fiddle. Charles often entertained his family by playing his fiddle. His fiddle is now on display in the museum in Mansfield, Missouri.

While the family was settled near Walnut Grove, Minnesota, they became charter members in a church. What was the name of the church?

Union Congregational Church. This church was dedicated by a Christmas party told of in "On The Banks Of Plum Creek", on December 20, 1874.

Charles often gave his time and talents to those in need. What special thing did he do for the local church?

gave his last $3 for a bell. Charles needed the $3 to replace his old patched boots. The bell he paid for is still ringing today in Walnut Grove.

Charles was a pioneer at heart and would have moved all the way to the western coast. But he respected Caroline's wishes to stay settled. Where did he build their last "little house"?

DeSmet, South Dakota. In the fall of 1887 Charles bought 2 lots on Third Street in DeSmet. He built the house on one lot, and on Christmas Eve they moved in, their last move as a family.