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Homestead National Monument of America Harvesting with steam engine tractors.
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FREE LAND was the cry!!

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 free land it allowed nearly any man or woman a chance to live the American dream. More...

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Homestead Act's 150th Anniversary

Celebrate the Homestead Act's 150th Anniversary

150th Event and Program Information

2012 marks the 150th anniversary of one of America's most influential pieces of legislation, the Homestead Act of 1862. The monument has many signature programs and events planned throughout 2012 and 2013 in commemoration of this act.

*Attention homesteading descendants: Want to carry your state flag?* More....

Check back regularly for updated event and program information!


 
webranger

Be a Homestead WebRanger

Hey Kids! Become a WebRanger and check out Homestead's new online activities. ENTER Homestead WebRanger Activities


 
Homesteading Chrisman Sisters, S. Butcher Collection

Are You a Homesteader or Descendant?

The Homestead Act of 1862 transferred more than 270 million acres of land from Federal to private ownership. We are seeking your help in locating people who filed claims under the Homestead Act. The goal is to locate and record the experiences of remaining homesteaders before the opportunity is lost. Homestead National Monument of America is developing a database of homesteaders and descendants. If you are a homesteader or a descendant, please help us by sending your name, address, telephone number and e-mail to:

Friends of Homestead
Homestead National Monument of America
8523 W. State Highway 4
Beatrice NE 68310

 
wheelchair

Accessibility
Learn about services and facilities that are available to assist park guests.


Park Regulations

Alcohol and hunting are prohibited. Fishing is permitted with a valid Nebraska fishing license. Smoking, all terrain vehicles, horses, pets, and camping are not allowed on the trails, on the prairie, or in the forested area. Visitors must stay on the trails and in designated areas. Cross country skiing is allowed on the trails.

The Heritage Center, Education Center, Freeman School, and Palmer-Epard Cabin are smoke free facilities. Food and drink are not allowed in any of the buildings.

Pets must be kept on a leash and in designated outside areas.

 

Write to

Superintendent
8523 W. State Hwy. 4
Beatrice, NE 68310

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(402) 223-3514

Park Headquarters
(402) 223-3514

Fax

(402) 228-4231

Climate

Weather varies greatly.  Please look at www.weather.com for predictions.  Use the zip code 68310 for the locality.  Summers can be warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms.  Temperatures may range from 75-105 with lows in the 50s.  Winters can vary between mild and very cold with rain, ice/sleet, snow and blizzard conditions.  Spring and Fall are moderate.
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Sunrise over prairie

Did You Know?
The Homestead Act, Emancipation Proclamation and the Railroad Act were passed at the same time and worked together to move emigrants to the west for settlement. -- Homestead National Monument of America

Last Updated: January 16, 2012 at 13:15 MST

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