Homesteading: The Cry was Free Land!!!
The Homestead Act of 1862 was one of the most significant and enduring events in the westward expansion of the United States. By granting 160 acres of free land to claimants, it allowed nearly any man or woman the chance to live the American dream. The Homestead National Monument of America is located on one of the first claims filed under the Homestead Act four miles west of Heritage Highway on State Highway 4.
There were 2 millioin claims filed under the Homestead Act of 1862 in 30 states. This law provided 270,000,000 acres to individuals. You'll find many more homesteading stories along Heritage Highway including Coryell Park near Auburn, and Willa Cather in Red Cloud.
Marker is at the intersection of Court Street (U.S. 136) and 2nd Street, on the right when traveling west on Court Street.
Courtesy hmdb.org
