Frank Greerson and Gregory Young have been discharged from the Army and are headed to their childhood homes. They both defied their parents in 1861 when they joined the Army. After battling southern rebels and preserving the Union of the United States of America, the two men set out to battle the Kansas Prairie and build a life together. Once they find their claim, they encounter common obstacles to life on the Kansas Prairie in 1866: Native Americans, tornadoes, wild animals, and weather.<br><br>When a prairie fire destroys their crops and takes their neighbor’s lives, Frank and Gregory are instructed to find their young son’s aunt. Faced with leaving a destroyed claim, the railroad coming through their land, and dwindling funds, Frank and Gregory must decide whether to leave the place they have worked hard to make their own or fulfill their friends' dying wishes.

A Place to Call Their Own

“I think they’re working on getting the Indians pushed into Indian Territory, so more folks can move closer to the river and across it. There’s a treaty in front of Congress right now, but no word on ratification. Which side you on again?”


“At least we did that right. We’re on the east side of the river. Is there any word on a land office opening anytime soon?”


“Not that I’ve heard. I think anyone serious about getting a claim filed is going to have to go clear to Topeka. But again, you’re on Indian land right now, so I don’t know if there’s anything you’re going to be able to do. The Indians aren’t talking to the government, but I heard they were talking to the railroad about building right about where you are.”


“Yeah, right through the homestead. Listen, you’ve been more than gracious with the news. That hotel still around here? I’ll need a place to stay tonight to figure what we’re going to do next.”


Chapter 50