Her Own Frontier: The Legacy of Female Homesteaders Who Shaped the American West

The 1862 Homestead Act beckoned thousands of women to the American frontier, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for land ownership and self-determination. This transformative legislation opened millions of acres across 30 states, allowing single women, widows, divorcees, and even those deserted by their husbands, to claim their own piece of the American dream.
The stories of these trailblazing women are often overshadowed by the more familiar tales of their male counterparts. However, a wealth of information lies hidden within the often-overlooked records created during the Homestead Act era.
Join us as we delve into those records to reveal the unwavering determination and resilience of these pioneering women.