Arnolds Park in Dickinson County, Iowa — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Abbie Gardner Historic Site
September 11, 2023
1. Abbie Gardner Historic Site Marker
This is the site of the famous "Spirit Lake Massacre," a violent conflict in March 1857 that led to the deaths of 36 settlers. Survivor Abbie Gardner (thirteen years old at the time of the massacre) returned to Arnolds Park and purchased the cabin and surrounding land in 1891, operating it as a tourist attraction until her death in 1921. In 1974, the State Historical Society of Iowa restored the cabin to its original appearance. The four corners of the cabin are the original oak logs and sit on their original location. The State Historical Society of Iowa owns and manages the Abbie Gardner cabin, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Settlements & Settlers • Wars, US Indian. A significant historical month for this entry is March 1857.
Location. 43° 21.93′ N, 95° 8.442′ W. Marker is in Arnolds Park, Iowa, in Dickinson County. Marker can be reached from Circle Drive north of Miriam Lane, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 74 Monument Dr, Arnolds Park IA 51331, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Massacre Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); The Gardner Cabin (within shouting distance of this marker); Luce Cabin (within shouting distance
this page online
September 11, 2023
2. Abbie Gardner Historic Site Marker
September 11, 2023
3. Abbie Gardner Cabin
September 11, 2023
4. Spirit Lake Massacre Monument
Credits. This page was last revised on October 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 30, 2023. This page has been viewed 73 times since then and 25 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on September 30, 2023.
