Description

Mother Earth Land Grants in Virginia, 1607-1699 is a comprehensive historical account that delves into the intricate process of land distribution and settlement in colonial Virginia from the founding of Jamestown through the end of the seventeenth century. Drawing extensively from original land grant records, patents, and official documents, the book meticulously traces the evolution of land ownership, the policies and practices of the English Crown, and the role of the Virginia Company in shaping the colony’s landscape. It explores the motivations behind land grants, including the encouragement of immigration, the reward of service, and the establishment of plantations, while also examining the impact of these grants on the indigenous populations and the environment. The narrative provides detailed descriptions of the various types of land grants, such as headrights, military bounties, and special patents, and analyzes the legal and social frameworks that governed their distribution. Through vivid accounts and case studies, the book brings to life the stories of early settlers, prominent families, and lesser-known individuals who played pivotal roles in the expansion of Virginia’s frontier. It also highlights the challenges faced by grantees, including boundary disputes, conflicts with Native Americans, and the difficulties of cultivating new land. Richly illustrated with maps, facsimiles of original documents, and genealogical tables, Mother Earth Land Grants in Virginia, 1607-1699 serves as an invaluable resource for historians, genealogists, and anyone interested in the origins of land tenure in America. The book not only documents the transformation of the Virginia wilderness into a patchwork of farms and estates but also offers insights into the broader themes of colonization, economic development, and the enduring legacy of land ownership in American history.