160 Acres
Definition
160 acres refers to an area measurement commonly associated with public land grants provided under various homestead acts. It represents approximately one-quarter square mile or roughly 64 hectares.
Analogy
Imagine dividing your school's football field into four equal parts. Each part would be around 160 acres. So when settlers received 160 acres of land, they were getting an equivalent area to four football fields.
Related terms
Land Grant: A government-bestowed gift of land to individuals, organizations, or institutions for various purposes such as settlement, education, or development.
Section: In the United States Public Land Survey System (PLSS), a section refers to one square mile (640 acres) of land.
Parcel: A specific portion or piece of land that is identified and distinguished from surrounding areas for ownership or usage purposes.
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