FREE LAND was the Cry!

The Homestead Act of 1862 transformed the world. Millions were invited to file claims including, families, immigrants, single women, and freed slaves. Over 10 percent of the United States was homesteaded! The land, long inhabited by American Indian cultures, changed forever. Homesteaders created settlements and farms, drove industrial advancement, and built our nation chasing the American Dream. Read More

Black and white photo, dustorm on the homestead.
Millions of People, Millions of Stories

Discover homesteading stories of migration, risk taking, labor, sacrifice, hardship, and courage in the face of daunting odds.

Text reads "things to do"
Things to do at Homestead

Considering a visit to Homestead? Use these suggestions to see what you can do!

A green overlay with white text reads "Discover Homestead National Historical Park"
Discover Opportunities at the Park

Discover what there is to do on your visit to Homestead National Historical Park!

10 State's Homestead Records Now Online.
Research Homestead Land Records

Continue your research! Access Homestead Land Record case files today.

A group of people standing in front of farm equipment
Black Homesteading in America

Many people homesteaded including formerly enslaved people, black people born as free citizens, and black immigrants.

Suffragist holds torch over Western states where women can vote beckoning the struggling women in Ea
Women Homesteaders

Explore the stories of women homesteaders across the United States.

Grassy field with Spanish text bubble "Bienvenidos Homestead National Historical Park"
Latin Homesteaders

Learn about some of the Latin homesteaders and watch videos available in English and Spanish.

A lego ranger in front of the historic cabin at Homestead.
Activities for Kids

Learn about kids activities at the park including Junior Ranger books and online activities!

Photo of brown fall tallgrass prairie at sunrise
Homestead Story Videos

This video series was produced by Lincoln Public Schools from footage and interviews from the park film Land of Dreams.

Last updated: September 1, 2023

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

8523 West State Highway 4
Beatrice, NE 68310

Phone:

402 223-3514

Contact Us