Grab your genealogy charts and your emotional-support bonnets, because this week we’re diving into “Family Tree,” the episode where poor little Albert discovers that figuring out where you come from can be… complicated.
When Miss Wilder assigns a genealogy project, Albert realizes his family tree looks a lot like the one from A Charlie Brown Christmas. Naturally, the children of Walnut Grove handle this delicate situation with the grace of a herd of stampeding cattle. Nothing says “friendship” quite like being called a “bastard” on a fishing trip, Laura being completely oblivious to Albert’s emotional turmoil, and Nellie Oleson taunting him just for some good old-fashioned psychopath fun. (She’s giving Matthew McConaughey in Dazed and Confused. In other words: LOSER.)
Albert begs Pa to officially adopt him in an absolutely devastating, tear-jerking scene. (Where are the Emmys for Michael Landon and Matthew Labyorteaux?! Truly.) Pa, suddenly realizing that—oops—he probably should have adopted Albert already, decides to make it official. Big mistake! Albert’s biological father is, gasp, ALIVE… and wants Albert back. Not out of love, not out of guilt—no, no. To work on his farm. What a heartwarming reunion!
But Albert, being the clever, street-savvy kid he is, hatches a plan: he pretends to be blind, which quickly convinces his bio-dad that this whole fatherhood thing is not for him. Reversing course, he leaves Albert in Walnut Grove where he belongs—back with the Ingalls, where he is (finally!) and officially adopted. (Honestly, having a blind sister really does come in handy here.)
“Family Tree” stands out as one of the most emotional episodes of Season 6, highlighting Albert’s vulnerability, Charles’ unwavering compassion, and the show’s ongoing theme that families are made, not just born. But don’t worry—your hosts keep the snark, nostalgia, and inappropriate giggling flowing throughout.
Then, join us on Patreon, where Alison shares stories about her father, Thor Arngrim, and the surprising similarities between his childhood and this episode. (Oh no… bad orphanage alert!)
Little House 50th Anniversary Podcast-LIVE!November 22nd at 1pmat GREEN ROOM 42PROMO CODE for 25% off PREMIUM BOOTH TICKETS: POD25
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Little House 50th Anniversary Podcast-LIVE!Grab your bonnets and buckle up, New York—because the prairie is coming to the city! Expect behind-the-scenes stories from the beloved TV show, lots of laughs, audience questions, and a surprise or two. It's the kind of prairie mischief you get every week on the podcast—but you can be a part of it! So put on your lemon verbena, put down the morphine and hitch your wagon - Walnut Grove is moving to NYC for one night only! Can't be in NYC? LIVESTREAM TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE and the link will last up to 30 days after the event!
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