Tom I didn't see any response to this interesting question. Illinois and Iowa ancestors from the mid 19 century owned land some 10 or so years prior to final papers. If that would be the case in other states or later years, I don't know. Dane \\ 03/5/11 3:14:10 AM, MIHOUGHT-D-request@rootsweb.com writes: << Date: Sat, 10 May 2003 14:17:12 -0700 From: "Tom" <rsmtom@cox.net> MIHOUGHT-D Digest V03 #137 I just realized that I don't know whether or not citizenship was a prerequisite to land ownership (timeframe early 1900s). If it was, what might have been required for an immigrant to demonstrate their citizenship status should they have wanted to buy a home, farm, or other real estate. >>

Hi Tom, I found this site, it cites when the Homesteading act came into effect.It does mention Naturalization ("if needed") so to me it is unclear weather it was a prerequisite. http://www.geocities.com/badamscecomcom/huroncounty/homestead.html Alicia Marshall I just realized that I don't know whether or not citizenship was a prerequisite to land ownership (timeframe early 1900s). If it was, what might have been required for an immigrant to demonstrate their citizenship status should they have wanted to buy a home, farm, or other real estate. >>