Netflix’s Little House on the Prairie Sets New Timeline
The Netflix remake of Little House on the Prairie is set in 1869, according to showrunner Rebecca Sonnenshine. This marks a departure from the original 1970s series, which ran from the 1870s to the 1890s. The first book in Laura Ingalls Wilder’s series is set in 1871.
Where Does the Netflix Series Take Place?
The new adaptation is set in Independence, Kansas, rather than Walnut Grove, Minnesota, where the original show was primarily located. This aligns more closely with Wilder’s books, as the Ingalls family built their first home in Independence after leaving the "big woods" before later moving to Walnut Grove.
The original 1974 series did touch on the family’s journey from Independence in its pilot episode, but most of the drama unfolded in Walnut Grove. If Netflix renews the series for additional seasons, the Ingalls could eventually relocate to Walnut Grove.
What Is the Show’s Logline?
Netflix describes the series as a “fresh adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s iconic semi-autobiographical Little House books.” Showrunner Rebecca Sonnenshine told People: “I want people to know, first of all, everybody making this show cares about the books and bringing it to life and being as authentic as we can and bringing all those details to life that people love. Everyone cares so much.”
The original Little House on the Prairie aired for nine seasons from 1974 to 1983 and became a beloved classic in the US and UK. The Netflix remake consists of eight episodes and is now streaming.
