Spirit Lake Massacre

The Abbie Gardner Sharp Cabin is a log structure made from oak timber built in 1856 and stands beside a museum. The site sits near Spirit Lake, where early settler families built their homesteads.

In March 1857, Wahpekute warriors led by Inkpaduta attacked settlements and killed around 35 people. This conflict marked a turning point in relations between settlers and the indigenous peoples of the region.

The cabin and its contents tell the story of early settlers and their Native American neighbors who shared the land. Visitors see personal objects and documents that show how people lived in this region.

The site opens on specific days and offers guided tours where you can learn more about the events that took place. Visitors should check hours in advance and allow time to explore the grounds and cabin.

A survivor of the attack, Abbie Gardner, later purchased the building and turned it into a place visitors could see. Her effort to keep this history alive shaped the site for more than a century.

GPS coordinates: 43.42000,-95.10000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:01