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The Free-Soil Party is Formed
The Free-Soil Party was the first political party formed to support homesteading and West settlement. Although it was short-lived, it served as an important precedent for the Homestead Act. -
Homesteading Legislation Voted Down
After being introduced to Congress, an early homesteading legislation was voted down in the House of Representatives. -
President Buchanan Vetoes Homestead Bill
President James Buchanan vetoed a homestead bill that was a passed by both Houses. -
Writer of Homestead Act Speaks
Galusha A. Grow, the writer of the Homestead Act, gave a speech to the House of Representatives introducing his ideas of homestead legislation. -
Lincoln Signs the Homestead Act of 1862
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Daniel Freeman claims a homestead.
Daniel Freeman is widely recognized as the first homesteader. -
The Homestead Act Goes into Effect
From January 1st midnight, pioneers had the opportunity to claim homesteads. -
Amendment to Homestead Act for Alaska
In July of 1916, an amendment was made to the Homestead Act for Alaska, decreasing the maximum amount of land homesteaders could claim. -
Homestead Laws Repealed
In October of 1976, all homestead laws were repealed in the United States except for in Alaska. -
Last Day for Homesteading in Alaska
October 21 of 1986 was the last day to claim homesteads in Alaska, thus ending homesteading in the US.
