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 Genealogist Amber Oldenburg as she delves into those records to reveal the unwavering determination and resilience of these pioneering women.

This Genealogy & History program is brought to you in part by the Friends of the Dallas Public Library and General Levi Casey Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and is available both in-person at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 8th floor AND online via Zoom. Register below for either option!