I've compiled a 49-page digital PDF research guide devoted entirely to teaching you about one of my favorite records that is often overlooked - U.S. Federal Land Entry Case Files.

Have you suspected that one of your ancestors acquired land through the Homestead Act of 1862? Or perhaps a cash entry in 1850s Arkansas? Or any other federal land acquisition from one of the 30 public land states?

This guide shows you how to follow clues, check for a land patent and then order the full case file packet from the National Archives. Think that the land patent on the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) General Land Office (GLO) site is all there is? Think again. There's paperwork leading up to that final patent, and I'll show you how to get it.

Released 25 Oct 2026

This guide is for U.S. federal land research, not global land research.

This guide contains 4 sections:

• Could your ancestor have acquired federal land?

• What might be in the file?

• Locating the records

• Examples/Interpretation

This is a digital download in PDF form. Unlike my previous guides where there is a digital viewing version for those who want it in widescreen and a printer-friendly version for those who want to print it, this guide can work for either option. It is vertical and is formatted for U.S. Letter or A4 paper.

By purchasing this book, you agree not to share this PDF with anyone who has not purchased it as this is under my copyright. Want to share it with someone? Purchase 1 copy for each person you wish to share it with.

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and download email at the email address associated with your payment type. You can also log in to your account on my website and download from the My Orders page. Links are valid for 30 days.