Hi Sherry, Gosh, I have been meaning to answer this messgae for a long time, but well, lots has been going on here, and I haven't gotten to it until now! The last time I visited this site, they only had a few states up and going, but maybe by now they will have more. Anyway, it will give you an idea of what a land patent record is. Again, I apologize for answering in such a length of time! http://www.glorecords.blm.gov/ I hope the link still works! Carol Sherry Gregg wrote: > Hello friends. > > I was hoping someone on this list could explain a few things to this > beginning genealogist. > > What exactly is a land patent? > > Was land sometimes owned by same person prior to a patent being > issued? > > 'Homesteads' were issued in what acreage sizes? > > With what government agency could I find information regarding > privately held lands, later > purchased as part of a National Park? > > Thank you in advance for any help!! > > Sherry Morefield Gregg