Text on exhibition panel:

Owning and Using LAND

Land can be a fulcrum around which social classes and cultures clash. Land occupied by American Indian nations was often viewed by the U.S. government as prime open space suitable for development and investment—a view sharply different from the indigenous practice of shared use and ownership.

Private land ownership was to become an essential element in American concepts of economic independence, personal autonomy, and political influence. These ideas remain important to many people today.

Ownership might not prevent others from using private land. Disputes erupt when non-owners claim access to private land or when an owner’s ability to control land use is challenged. That may happen when eminent domain rights are asserted or when water rights, mineral rights, and rights of way are disputed.

How has your community handled the complex nature of land ownership and use?

Independence