Homestead Act Flashcard

Front

What were the settlers' citizenship requirements according to the Homestead Act?

Back

A settler needed to be (1) head of a family or (2) 21-years old AND (1) is a U.S. citizen or (2) have filed to become a citizen AND never have borne arms against the U.S. or given aid to enemies.

Front

How old did settlers have to be to claim land under the Homestead Act?

Back

21 years old and head of a family

Front

Why was there a clause about never having fought against the United States in the Homestead Act?

Back

To limit settlers to loyal Union settlers - not Confederates

Front

How long did the homesteader have to live on the property according to the Homestead Act?

Back

Five years

Front

In what ways did the homesteader have to improve the land?

Back

Build a home, stable, sheep shed, and corn crib and plant apple and peach trees.

Front

Whose names are on the sample application for the Homestead Act?

Back

Daniel Freeman, settler and Richard F. Bonnet, Register

Front

With what office are the Homestead Act documents filed?

Back

Land Office

Front

In order to locate this property on a map, what other information is needed?

Back

Latitude and longitude

Front

Why do you think these documents are kept by the National Archives?

Back

To preserve history

Front

What year was the Homestead Act approved?

Back

1862