FREE LAND was the Cry!

The Homestead Act of 1862 transformed the world. Millions were invited to file claims including families, women, immigrants, and formerly enslaved people. Over 10 percent of the United States was homesteaded! The land, long inhabited by indigenous 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.

Black man sits with his daughter in front of the National Archives in Washington D.C.
Homestead Roots Deep in the South

A NEW mini documentary about sharing family history and the discovery of homestead roots in the South.

Sunrise view of Homestead's Heritage Center. Text reads "Plan your visit to Homestead"
Plan your visit to Homestead

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

Palmer Epard Cabin. White text on green reads "Learn about Homestead National Historical Park"
Learn more about Homestead NHP

Learn fun facts about homesteading and Homestead National Historical Park!

Computer with green banner and white text reading, "Research Homestead NHP"
Research Homestead Land Records

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

Hands type on computer keyboard
Submit a Homestead Story

By acquiring historic homestead Land Entry Records, write and submit a story along with the records to add to the park's repository!

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!

Sun rising in the east over the Homestead NHP's Heritage Center.
Photos & Multimedia

View photos and videos about the homesteading story, Homestead NHP, past and present events, podcasts, and more.

US flag backlit by a blinding sun.
July 4th Heritage Campfire Program

On July 4, 2024, come celebrate our nation's homesteading roots at this patriotic ranger-guided campfire program!

Electrek American Solar Challenge 2024 Route Stops
Electrek American Solar Challenge 2024

On July 24, 2024, Homestead NHP is stop 7 on this year's Electrek American Solar Challenge. Learn about solar cars and other innovations.

Man in period clothing speaks to visitors. On his table, an array of homesteading era toys and tools
Living History Extravaganza

This Labor Day (August 31, 2024), take part in historical crafts and learn from living history demonstrators.

Top left, top right, and bottom right show parking lot construction work. Bottom left shows car lot.
Alerts and Conditions

See current alerts and conditions at Homestead NHP.

Last updated: July 15, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

8523 West State Highway 4
Beatrice, NE 68310

Phone:

402 223-3514

Contact Us