Homesteading 101: What Early Settlers Wish You Knew

In the vast stretches of Wyoming, where the land meets the sky in an unbroken line, early settlers like the Grants (featured in Sandy Dovey’s A Journey) carved their lives from the unforgiving earth. These pioneers embarked on one of the most grueling journeys a person could imagine: not just traveling across an ocean but also cultivating a new existence from scratch. What can modern-day homesteaders, dreamers of an off-grid life, learn from the Grants’ experiences? The answer lies in their remarkable resilience, adaptability, and hands-on wisdom. Here are the practical lessons they would want to share with those wishing to “go back to the land” today.

Claiming Land: The First Step to Freedom

Imagine setting foot on a piece of land that’s both foreign and familiar. For early settlers like the Grants, the decision to homestead wasn’t just about owning land—it was about claiming freedom. The Grants left behind the misty and oppressive weather of Scotland, driven by the promise of a better life in the wide-open spaces of Wyoming. This was a new start, but the land proved to be a harsh taskmaster.

Lesson #1: Do Your Research

While the process of claiming land has evolved, the Grants would advise modern homesteaders to follow the same rule: research is essential. They had to learn about soil quality, water sources, and weather patterns to pick the right plot. In today’s world, the process has shifted from staking claims to buying property, but the principle is the same. When searching for land, be sure to consider all aspects, including zoning laws, water rights, land access, and local climate conditions.

Lesson #2: Know What You’re Getting Into

In the 19th century, settlers didn’t just pick any land—they had to survey it, fight for it, and work it every single day. For today’s homesteaders, this means understanding the labor, costs, and resources required to make a piece of land truly yours. The Grants learned that while the land seemed to offer endless potential, the work was constant and grueling. Get realistic about your expectations—there’s no such thing as easy land.

Building a Cabin: Shelter or Survival?

When the Grants arrived at their land in Wyoming, they didn’t move into a fully furnished cabin. No, they had to build their shelter—one that would protect them from the biting winters and scorching summers. The Grants constructed a simple sod house, a humble yet efficient structure made from the land itself.

Lesson #3: Build Smart, Build Simple

One thing today’s homesteaders can take from the Grants is their simplicity. While modern techniques and materials may make construction faster, the traditional methods are still practical. The Grants used local resources, such as stone and timber, to build a sturdy and functional home. Modern homesteaders can learn from their example and focus on sustainability. Don’t overcomplicate things. If you’re building a cabin, start with what you can afford and what’s available. Whether you’re working with timber, cob, or straw bales, the key is to create a solid, weatherproof structure that will last.

Lesson #4: Prioritize Function Over Form

The Grants weren’t concerned with luxury—they needed shelter that would survive the harsh elements of the West. They built strong, resilient homes that were practical and suited to the land. Today’s homesteaders often fall into the trap of dreaming of a rustic, Pinterest-perfect cabin, but the Grants would tell you: function first, form second. Build something that will keep you safe and warm. Simple doesn’t have to mean uncomfortable; focus on practical comforts like insulation, a solid roof, and a well-made stove.

Growing Food: Nature’s Gift or Hard Labor?

One of the most essential skills early homesteaders learned was farming. The Grants were no strangers to hard work, especially when it came to growing food. After the first flood washed away their sod house, they had to rebuild—and then they had to learn how to cultivate the land. Farming on the frontier wasn’t a hobby; it was a matter of survival.

Lesson #5: Start Small and Learn to Adapt

The Grants began by growing root vegetables, such as beans, carrots, and potatoes—foods that could survive the harsh Wyoming climate. Early homesteaders like the Grants didn’t attempt to grow everything at once. Instead, they built on small successes, adapting as they went. In the modern back-to-the-land movement, many newcomers attempt to plant a variety of crops immediately. This can be overwhelming and often unsuccessful. Today’s homesteaders should start small—focus on a few crops that are suited to your local climate, and learn as you go.

Lesson #6: Work with Nature, Not Against It

The Grants learned early on that working with the land was more effective than fighting it. Wyoming’s arid climate made farming a challenge, but they adapted by using irrigation and choosing crops that thrived in such conditions. Homesteaders today can learn from their example by understanding and respecting the natural environment around them. Study your land, weather patterns, and growing seasons before diving in. Embrace permaculture principles and know that some things are simply beyond your control.

The Hardships and Rewards of Self-Sufficiency

What early settlers like the Grants truly understood was the value of resilience. Every day was a battle, whether it was fighting harsh winters, battling sickness, or simply ensuring their cattle had enough to eat. The constant struggle for survival was real, but it built a spirit of community and strength. Over time, the Grants found that, while life on the frontier was demanding, it was also rewarding. They built a legacy of hard work, unity, and respect for the land.

Lesson #7: Perseverance Pays Off

Homesteading isn’t easy—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. The Grants encountered numerous obstacles, from floods to illness, but they persevered and kept moving forward. Their story reminds modern homesteaders that every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether you’re learning how to grow your food, raise animals, or maintain your home, persistence is key. Don’t expect things to be easy, but know that the rewards of self-sufficiency and independence are worth the effort.

Lesson #8: Community Is Key

While the Grants were self-reliant, they also recognized the importance of community. They didn’t build their lives alone; they worked together with neighbors, offering help when needed and celebrating successes together. For homesteaders today, this lesson is invaluable. Building a homesteading community can be just as crucial as creating your own self-sustaining life. Find like-minded people who can support you, offer advice, and help you weather the toughest seasons.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

The homesteading dream, whether in the 19th century or today, is rooted in self-reliance, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. Early settlers, such as the Grants, had to be resourceful, hardworking, and adaptable. They learned from every mistake, and they never stopped moving forward—even when things got tough. As modern-day homesteaders embark on their journeys, they can draw inspiration from these pioneers. By starting small, staying adaptable, and prioritizing practicality over perfection, today’s homesteaders can build a life as rich in purpose as that of the Grants—and the rewards of such a life are genuinely worth the effort.