Building Historical Capacity in Kansas Homesteading
GrantID: 76158
Grant Funding Amount Low: $100
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $1,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Investigating Kansas Homesteading Histories
Kansas's unique location along the historical migratory paths of settlers presents distinctive barriers to understanding the state's homesteading past. With the state's vast plains and sparse population, many communities have limited access to historical resources, hindering research into the lives and experiences of homesteaders during the vital periods of westward expansion. The Kansas Historical Society has reported that nearly a quarter of the state’s population resides in areas classified as rural, where information is not easily available or preserved, making scholarly access to historical records significantly challenging.
Researchers who encounter these barriers include independent scholars, graduate students, and local historians aiming to document less known narratives about homesteading in Kansas. Those focusing on oral histories and community stories often struggle to locate relevant archives or to receive necessary support to explore these topics comprehensively. Additionally, many local historians find themselves competing against larger institutions for grants and funding, which limits their capacity to engage in substantial research efforts.
Addressing these challenges, the American Historical Association's grant program focusing on homesteading history in Kansas is designed to empower individual researchers to undertake projects that reveal the complex tapestry of settlers’ experiences. With awards ranging from $800-$1,000, these grants provide promising scholars with the financial means to access overlooked archives, conduct interviews, and potentially collaborate with local historical societies. By emphasizing the collection and documentation of oral histories, this funding aims to enrich the historical narrative of Kansas.
Moreover, this initiative facilitates the development of comprehensive research outputs that document personal and community impacts during the homesteading period. The funded research will not only improve academic understanding of the challenges faced by settlers but also provide valuable resources for local museums and educational institutions seeking to engage the public with Kansas's unique history. Thus, these funding opportunities directly address knowledge gaps and foster a diverse representation of voices in the historical narrative, critically enhancing the understanding of the socio-economic factors surrounding homesteading in Kansas.
Through these efforts, the American Historical Association supports scholars who aspire to enhance historical narratives by investigating the multi-faceted lives of Kansas homesteaders. Ultimately, this funding plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the unique historical heritage of Kansas, solidifying its identity as a region of significant migration and settlement.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
