Introduction
The Public Land Survey System (PLSS) is a standardized method for subdividing and describing land in the United States. Established in the late 18th century, it has been instrumental in land management, real estate, and development.
Historical Context
The PLSS was created by the Land Ordinance of 1785, primarily to facilitate the sale of land in the western territories of the United States. Thomas Jefferson and other early American leaders advocated for a systematic approach to land division, which led to the establishment of PLSS.
Key Events
- 1785: The Land Ordinance of 1785 was enacted.
- 1787: The Northwest Ordinance further structured land settlement.
- 1800s: Expansion westward with continued application of PLSS.
Types/Categories
Principal Meridians and Baselines
The PLSS uses principal meridians (north-south lines) and baselines (east-west lines) to begin surveys.
Townships and Sections
Land is divided into townships (36 square miles) and further subdivided into 36 sections (1 square mile each).
Detailed Explanation
Structure
- Townships are referenced by their position relative to the principal meridian and baseline.
- Sections within townships are numbered in a serpentine pattern.
Mathematical Model
- Township Coordinates: (Range, Township)
- Example: T2N R3E (Township 2 North, Range 3 East)
- Sections: 1 to 36 numbered in a “checkerboard” pattern
Importance and Applicability
The PLSS is crucial in the administration of land records, property sales, and legal descriptions across the United States, except the original 13 states, Texas, and parts of Hawaii.
Examples
- Real Estate: Descriptions such as “the NW 1/4 of Section 12, T2N, R3E” ensure precise land transactions.
- Land Management: Governmental agencies utilize PLSS for land grants, mining claims, and public use planning.
Considerations
- Accuracy: Ensuring precise measurements and documentation.
- Historical Records: Access to and understanding of old survey records.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Baseline: A principal east-west line used in the PLSS.
- Principal Meridian: A principal north-south line used in the PLSS.
- Township: A six-mile square unit of land in the PLSS.
- Section: A one-mile square unit of land within a township.
Comparisons
- Metes and Bounds: An older system using physical features, less standardized than PLSS.
- Rectangular Survey: Another term for PLSS emphasizing its grid pattern.
Interesting Facts
- The PLSS facilitated the sale of over a billion acres of public land.
- It contributed to the westward expansion and settlement of the United States.
Inspirational Stories
Pioneers and settlers used PLSS descriptions to navigate and claim lands, fueling dreams of new beginnings and prosperity.
Famous Quotes
- Thomas Jefferson on the Land Ordinance of 1785: “The earth belongs always to the living generation.”
Proverbs and Clichés
- “Square deals are made on square acres.” (Emphasizing the fairness of PLSS)
Expressions, Jargon, and Slang
- “On the grid”: Refers to property within the PLSS framework.
FAQs
What states do not use the PLSS?
How is PLSS different from Metes and Bounds?
References
- Bureau of Land Management: Information on land records and PLSS.
- Library of Congress: Historical documents on land ordinances.
Final Summary
The Public Land Survey System (PLSS) has been a foundational method for land division in the United States, supporting real estate, land management, and development. Its standardized approach offers clarity and precision, influencing the growth and organization of American territories since its inception.
Charts and Diagrams
PLSS Township Diagram in Mermaid Format
graph TD;
A[T2N R3E Township]
A -->|1| B[Section 1]
A -->|2| C[Section 2]
A -->|3| D[Section 3]
A -->|4| E[Section 4]
A -->|5| F[Section 5]
A -->|6| G[Section 6]
A -->|7| H[Section 7]
A -->|8| I[Section 8]
A -->|9| J[Section 9]
A -->|10| K[Section 10]
A -->|11| L[Section 11]
A -->|12| M[Section 12]
A -->|13| N[Section 13]
A -->|14| O[Section 14]
A -->|15| P[Section 15]
A -->|16| Q[Section 16]
A -->|17| R[Section 17]
A -->|18| S[Section 18]
A -->|19| T[Section 19]
A -->|20| U[Section 20]
A -->|21| V[Section 21]
A -->|22| W[Section 22]
A -->|23| X[Section 23]
A -->|24| Y[Section 24]
A -->|25| Z[Section 25]
A -->|26| AA[Section 26]
A -->|27| AB[Section 27]
A -->|28| AC[Section 28]
A -->|29| AD[Section 29]
A -->|30| AE[Section 30]
A -->|31| AF[Section 31]
A -->|32| AG[Section 32]
A -->|33| AH[Section 33]
A -->|34| AI[Section 34]
A -->|35| AJ[Section 35]
A -->|36| AK[Section 36]
The PLSS remains a vital framework for land subdivision and land record management, reflecting an enduring legacy of American expansion and development.
