http://www.glo.state.tx.us/archives/lgrants.html#headright This is from The Government Land Office(GLO) Pre-emption Grant Similar to the headright grants, pre-emption grants were made after statehood. From 1845 to 1854 homesteaders could claim 320 acres. From 1854 to 1856, and 1866 to 1898, up to 160 acres could be claimed. Homesteaders were required to live on the land for three years and make improvements (such as building a barn) in order to qualify for a pre-emption grant of 160 acres. Karen, this may be why your subject was so sure of the day he entered Texas. Note the dates. Thought you'd need this. Tom