Florence Claim Shack

The Homestead Act of 1862 provided that anyone who was head of a household, or at least 21 years of age could lay claim to a 160 acre parcel of land. The homesteader had to meet certain conditions to 'prove up' on their claim, such as plowing and planting between 10 and 15 acres and construction of a dwelling. A claim shack usually 12 foot by 14 foot met the requirements and served as the first home for many pioneers.

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