De Smet, South Dakota

De Smet, South Dakota, was Larua Ingalls Wilder's home for several years and was the birthplace of Rose Wilder Lane. It is described in some detail during Chapter 1 of the book, and forms the initial setting of the text. De Smet is described as economically depressed and suffering from a prolonged drought. There are many emigrants, including the Wilder and Cooley families.

Mansfield, Missouri

Mansfield, Missiouri is also known—to the Wilders—as the Gem City of the Ozarks and the Land of the Big Red Apple. It was Rose Wilder Lane's hometown during her childhood years and is the destination of the journey described in the book. The town is described in considerable detail during Chapter 3 of the book, and forms the final setting of the text. Mansfield is described as a booming town with many modern conveniences.

The Hundred-Dollar Bill