According to the Donation Land Claim Act, each male white citizen, 18 years of age or older was entitled to 320 acres of land if single. If he were married or became married within one year, his wife could hold an additional 320 acres.

Emigrants arriving within three years after December 1, 1850 could claim 160 acres if white, male, citizens and over 21. Married couples were granted 320 acres, one half to the wife.