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. Information and forms are available from the Sacramento ​County Public Law Library​. Blank forms may also be available at office supply stores. Requirements. 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. Recording a declaration of homestead extends a homeowner's automatic homeowner's exemption, to include voluntary sales and not just foreclosures. President Abraham Lincoln signed the Homestead Act on May 20, 1862.