Ushers Ferry to host birthday party for Laura Ingalls Wilder

CEDAR RAPIDS — If Laura Ingalls Wilder were alive today, she'd be celebrating her 150th birthday Feb. 7.

Ushers Ferry Historic Village feels that is cause for celebration and is hosting a birthday party in honor of America's most loved pioneer girl on Sunday, Feb. 5.

'We have a couple of volunteers here at Ushers Ferry who are really passionate about Laura Ingalls Wilder,' said Ann Cejka, program coordinator at Ushers Ferry Historic Village, 5925 Seminole Valley Trail NE, Cedar Rapids. 'We've done Laura Ingalls Wilder programs for about 20 years here, everything from Girl Scout badge workshops to overnights and tea parties. They are such fun to do because there is so much information in the book that we can use to plan them.'

Wilder, of course, is best known for her 'Little House on the Prairie' series.

This birthday party celebration is no exception, Cejka said. Attendees will make crafts and play games directly inspired by the books. There will be music and winter activities. Plus, guests will enjoy tea and other Laura Ingalls Wilder inspired treats.

'Fancy oranges were a big deal in Laura's day because in the Midwest they had to be shipped in by train. So we'll definitely be having fancy oranges at our party,' said Cejka.

'This is really for all ages. Everyone from children who are starting to read or have read the books to adults who accompany them or are just huge Laura Ingalls Wilder fans. It's sure to be lots of fun.'

The party runs from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and will be hosted at the Ushers Ferry Historic Village site, The cost to participate is $20 for Cedar Rapids residents and $24 for non-residents.

Registration is required for the programs. For more information and to register, call (319) 286-5566 or visit crrec.org.

IF YOU GO

What: Laura Ingalls Wilder's 150th Birthday

When: 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5

Where: Ushers Ferry Historic Village, 5925 Seminole Valley Trail NE, Cedar Rapids

Registration: $20 for Cedar Rapids residents and $24 for non-residents. Registration is required. To register, call (319) 286-5566 or visit crrec.org and search for program #314706-01.