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Historic Sites

Abbie Gardner Sharp Cabin

Physical Location

Location Address

74 Monument Dr.
Arnolds Park, IA 51331

Phone(s)

712-336-6352
Abbie Gardner Sharp Cabin in Arnolds Park, Iowa

In 1857, amidst rising tensions between Native Americans and new settlers, 13-year-old Abbie Gardner’s family was killed by men of the Dakota Indian nation. This tragedy became known as the Spirit Lake Conflict.  

Young Abbie was taken hostage by the Dakota band and released 84 days later. Decades after the massacre, in 1891, Abbie returned to Arnolds Park and purchased the cabin, operating it as one of Iowa’s earliest tourist attractions.

Visiting Information

Memorial Day – Labor Day
Tuesday – Sunday: Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Closed Monday

Labor Day – Memorial Day
Closed

Admission & Tours

Free admission. Group tours welcome. Please schedule in advance with Dickinson County Conservation Boardor by phone at 712-336-6352.

Resources

  • Site History

  • Teacher’s Guide

Physical Location

Location Address

74 Monument Dr.
Arnolds Park, IA 51331

Phone(s)

712-336-6352

Secondary Navigation Menu

  • Historic Sites (parent section)
    • Abbie Gardner Sharp Cabin
    • American Gothic House
    • Blood Run National Historic Landmark
    • Matthew Edel Blacksmith Shop
    • Montauk Historic Site (parent section)
      • Accessibility & Site Visit Information
    • Plum Grove Historic Home
    • Toolesboro Mounds National Historic Landmark

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