William

The land grant info came from the Bureau of Land Management Glo Records site. Kind of neat as you can get actual images of the original land patents. The site is here: http://www.glorecords.blm.gov/default.aspx

They have added a mapping tool so you can now see where these land grants are in relation to todays geography.

Land Patent offices were State Offices where land grants were issued by the state for land the Federal Government donated to the state as homestead grants or purchases under the 1820 homestead act. Ironton MO was where Howell Co land was recorded. Interestingly enough, the patentee/buyer had to present himself in person. The records can often times relate wife names and children names not to mention are a good way to become more precise in locating old family homes and farms. Enjoy. Additional info can be had here: http://www.sos.mo.gov/archives/land/

John R