Beatrice in Gage County, Nebraska — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
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.
Erected by Heritage Highway U.S. Highway 136 Byway.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Charity & Public Work • Government & Politics • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1862.
Location. 40° 15.963′ N, 96° 45.128′ W. Marker is in Beatrice, Nebraska, in Gage County. Marker is at the intersection of Court Street (U.S. 136) and 2nd Street, on the right when traveling west on Court Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Beatrice NE 68310, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Railroads: Union Pacific & Burlington Northern (here, next to this marker); The De Roin & Oregon Trails (here, next to this marker); River Town Development (here, next to this marker); Founding of Beatrice, Nebraska Territory (within shouting distance of this marker); Replica of the Statue of Liberty (within shouting distance of this marker); Gage County Veterans Memorial (approx. half a mile away); Civil War and Spanish War Memorial (approx. half a mile away); Beatrice Veterans Memorial Wall of Honor (approx. 0.8 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Beatrice.
Also see . . .
1. Homestead National Monument of America. (Submitted on September 26, 2011, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.)
2. Homestead Act: Primary Documents in American History. (Submitted on September 26, 2011, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.)
Credits. This page was last revised on January 9, 2022. It was originally submitted on September 26, 2011, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania. This page has been viewed 612 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 26, 2011, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.