Laura's cheerful and hardworking father, admired for his optimism and self-reliance as he builds a homestead for the family and makes crucial decisions for their future.

Serving as the family's civilizing influence, she embodies patience and traditional feminine roles, maintaining the household and guiding Laura toward socially accepted behavior.

Laura's cautious and reserved sister, who contrasts with Laura’s impulsiveness and exhibits traits that were desirable in nineteenth-century girls.

A cheerful neighbor and welcome addition to the Ingalls family circle, who assists Pa with farm work and brings Christmas presents for the children.

Generous neighbors who assist the Ingalls family, with Mr. Scott helping Pa with the well and Mrs. Scott nursing them when they are sick, though they express strong prejudices toward Native Americans.