In 1862, Congress passed the revolutionary Homestead Act that sent thousands of Americans west in pursuit of free land. What was the history leading up to the 1862 Homestead Act?As the United States emerged as a new nation in the late 18th century, it accumulated title to land. If you own and live in a house in Fulton County, you may qualify for homestead exemption. Unlike most states, Alaska does not impose an acreage limit for homestead exemptions. Homesteading originated with President Lincoln signing the original Homestead. Act on May 20, 1862. A homestead exemption is a legal provision that helps to reduce the amount of property taxes on owner-occupied homes. The home must be your primary residence. Fill in the blank Transfer on Death Deed form formatted to comply with all Georgia recording and content requirements.