This course explores the genealogical treasures found in land records created by the Homestead Act of 1862. Viewers learn about the provisions of the act and how they generated records that can be genealogically valuable and establish kinship. The lessons sequentially develop the events that led up to the act that finally passed in 1862.The significance of the act is explained from both the historical context and the genealogical value. Strategies to find homestead records are described and demonstrated. Both archival and online finding aids are discussed with special emphasis on the General Land Office website. Viewers learn about the significance of modifications to the basic Homestead Act and the records created. More advanced topics such as tract books and other finding aids to locate cancelled claims and claims converted to cash sales are explored. Resources for learning more are described.