This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: iamflj Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.arkansas.counties.littleriver/1156.2.1.1.1.1.2.1.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I did order from the National Archives. The amount of supporting information varies with the date of the homestead. Documents following the 1862 Homestead act have generally more information, including witness statements. I have 1832 and 1860 homestead papers that just describe the land , confirm payment, may have a simple statement from applicant that land will be used for cultivation. 1878 homestead papers (Elizabeth Johnson) : land description, title certificate, payment receipts, non-mineral affidavit from applicant, final applicant affidavits (her name, date she began residence, that she resides on land with family, has made improvements, uses land for cultivation). Two witnesses John Trammell and Henry Johnson swear on joint affidavit that applicant has resided there for five years since 24 April 1871 with her six children, has cultivated ten acres, has a dwelling house, smoke house, corn crib, stables, orchard planted, well dug, garden fenced. 1894 (Benjamin D Johnson) and 1895 (Samuel M Johnson) homestead documents have quite a bit more information: land description, payment receipts, non-mineral affidavit, copy of notice published for 6 weeks in 'Wilton Advocate' with land claim and names of four witnesses, a "Register and Receivers Report" checklist from court clerk showing what requirements have been met, applicant testimony (name, age, where born, date took up residence on land, number of family members, details of land cleared and structures built, any absences from land since residence began), testimony of two witnesses on individual forms giving name and age of each witness and statements confirming applicant's claims about time on land, improvements, absences, etc. Will look into that death certificate trial site, thanks. That could be very helpful. A footnote, speaking of death certificates: Dolly Dore's death certificate says her mother was Lucinda Duncan, and another family note found recently almost confirms that -- says she was Mary Louise Duncan. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.