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Genealogy: Land Records and Maps

This guide will help you with the genealogical resources we have here in Murphy Library and direct you to other places and links for further information.

Finding Land Records

If you are looking for specific land records for people who acquired land under the 1862 Homestead Act, here are a few resources.

Settlers had three steps to do:

  1. file application papers, and pay filing fees, eventually a total of $18
  2. improve the land over the next five years (usually build a dwelling, and start a farm)
  3. file for a deed of title.

According to Family Search, only about 40% of those who started the process were able to finish and obtain the title to their land. It is very helpful if you have the legal description of the land.