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.

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.

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!

A green overlay with white text 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!

Image of vintage camera and two reels of film
Educational Videos

Discover videos that compliment curriculum of all age levels.

Man in traditional Native American dress speaks into microphone.
National Park Week performance

April 20, 2024, Greg Victors, also known as the Wichita War Dancer, preserves traditional Native American culture and educates audiences.

A hand lifts up a garlic mustard plant, highlighting its veins and scalloped shape.
Garlic Mustard removal events

Come out to assist every Saturday starting on April 20, 2024, and continuing through June 1, 2024, except for May 25, 2024 (Fiddle Festival)

People sit facing a stage while a performer plays.
Tallgrass Prairie Fiddle Festival, 2024

Fiddle workshop, competitions, jam session, and buck dancing workshop with Hillary Klug! May 25 and 26, 2024.

Last updated: April 18, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

8523 West State Highway 4
Beatrice, NE 68310

Phone:

402 223-3514

Contact Us