From: A Hornbook of Virginia History, Published by The Division of History of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Development, Compiled and Edited by J.R.V. Daniel, Division Director Page 97 The head right system of land distribution was the essence of democracy. >From 1610 to 1660, when small farms were profitable and wages for labor four and five times those paid in England, it made the Colony a veritable land of opportunity for the poor and middle classes across the ocean. By this system, each settler, be he nobleman or churl, was entitled to 50 acres; so too were apprentices upon the completion of their apprenticeships. Practically all labor was supplied by white indentured servants until the century's last decade. In 1699 "treasury rights," which meant the sale of unlimited land by the Colony to those who could pay the treasury five shillings for each 50 acres, were issued, and as a result, before 1715 the head right system had ceased to be an important factor in building Virginia civilization. As plantations grew in number and great landed estates appeared, the position of the small farmer and the white servants steadily deteriorated. There is a possibility the above information could answer some questions we have about Amer's 50 acres and may account for the fact he wasn't in the early records for New Kent County. He may have been an indentured servant but it is just as likely that when the above mentioned "treasury rights" appeared in 1699 he was able to acquire the 50 acres. We know he paid the taxes or quit rent of his 50 acres. Judy