h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi Mol

Most of the western extension of settlements in the US were controlled by the 'Homestead Acts' http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/homestead-act/

The entire area was divided into large squares called 'Townships'http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Ordinance_of_1785 the four centre squares were reserved for government, one of them for the sole purpose of education.

By purchasing a small square 1/36 of the big one you would have neighbours for companionship who could help each other when needed. The filling of a large square produced enough customers to support a general store and other merchants.

Thought you might find this interesting.



F S

Thank you I will look into that. I've got several background books on LIW (not the newest one, Pioneer Girl, must order that) and I read up about the native Americans (possibly the most depressing book I've ever read is there nothing that humans won't do to other humans?). But I never found anything about homesteading and the move to the West.

Mind you, I probably haven't properly looked since the invention of the internet

I think you may have set me off on a happy evening cruising the wonderful web Thank you

Mol

Just a few thoughts on the Native Americans.

I have mainly studied the eastern tribes, most of whom were displaced by the 'Indian Removal Act of 1830. We have an excellent Entry about 'The Trail of Tears' A9633260

I have my own Entry about the Florida Native Americans in the Entry 'The Second Seminole War' at A87734488

I attend several historical events each year and have spent many a pleasant evening in the lodges of the decedents of the Native Americans passing a jug or pipe around the circle. If you should find yourself in this situation, I should warn you the pipe seldom contains a tobacco product.

You are correct that there were terrible things done against the Native Americans. I wish I could change the past, but I can't.

I do have some very good Native American Friends

F S