Questions: Section 4

Comprehension Questions

1. What was the first task facing the pioneers who filed claims? What was the minimum size required?
2. If an area had hills, what type of temporary home could be constructed? What type if an area had a lot of timber?
3. What was a common dwelling for the early homesteaders on the prairie? How thick were the walls?
4. What did pioneer women use to paint the interior of their homes?
5. What were one-room frame houses made of wood called?
6. What was the average length of time that homesteaders lived in their first home?
7. What was the most important item in every home? What was the big one in the kitchen called?
8. In the earliest days of homesteading, what product was gathered from the prairie to use as fuel for the stoves? Name other fuel sources.
9. What was a dug-out room below or near the house called? It was used to store what?

Critical Thinking Question

1. Explain why running water and indoor plumbing were not available even in homes located along the rivers.