Moving To The Sunshine State Did Not Go As Expected
Almanzo was still experiencing a lot of difficulties, although Laura never failed to help him when he needed help with work. The two kept their eyes peeled for opportunities that they could take. Together with Rose, the couple decided to up and move to Florida in 1891. The photo below shows the couple in the so-called Sunshine State. They were under the impression that the weather would do wonders for Almanzo’s health and make farming easier. Unfortunately, they had to deal with the fact that things rarely go as planned. Laura did not enjoy the weather and humidity at all, so they came back to De Smet the following year.
Moving To The Sunshine State Did Not Go As Expected
Reaping The Rewards After 20 Years Of Labor
In 1894, the Wilders relocated once more, this time to Mansfield, Missouri. Using their savings, they purchased an undeveloped plot of land outside town and dubbed it Rocky Ridge Farm. Here is Almanzo proudly showing us the apple trees in their orchard. They earned money by chopping up and selling firewood. The apple trees started to bear fruit after seven years. Laura’s parents-in-law helped them pay for the house they had been renting, which made things much easier. They would later own 200 acres of land, sell the house in town, and live on the farm. Overall, they spent about two decades creating their fruit, dairy, and poultry farm.
Reaping The Rewards After 20 Years Of Labor