Ambiguous Situation: After the mop race, Laura claims Nellie bumped into her mop to win. Whether she really did or Laura just thought she did, or Laura is being insincere is unclear, given that Nellie is never seen bumping into anyone.
Anachronism Stew: Although the show is definitely dated in the 1870s, the march that the band plays throughout this episode, the 'Washington Post March' by John Philip Sousa, was not written until 1889.
Dented Iron: Ben Tyler is still very physically capable, but old age clearly took a toll on his ability, even though he insists that he can beat the much younger Charles, who can't stand his bragging attitude.
Early-Installment Weirdness: Mrs. Oleson is part of the pie contest and brags about her mother's recipe, implying that she's strong competition at cooking. Later episodes establish that she hates cooking and makes a poor job when she does, and that Nels does the meals at home.
Not So Above It All: Even Caroline, usually the more humble, level-headed Ingalls, gets caught up in the competitive spirit of Founder's Day after Mrs. Oleson keeps bragging about her children's alleged physical superiority and her cooking skills for the pie contest.
