Township and Range System

Definition

The Township and Range System is a method of land surveying used in the United States, established by the Land Ordinance of 1785. This system divides land into a grid of townships, each typically six miles square, and further subdivides these into sections, which are one square mile each. It reflects the organization and planning of rural landscapes and has significantly influenced land use and settlement patterns across the country.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Township and Range System was implemented to promote an organized approach to land distribution in the newly acquired western territories after the American Revolution.
2. Each township is divided into 36 sections, with each section being able to be sold or developed individually.
3. The system is based on a grid layout, which helps to facilitate land ownership, agriculture, and urban planning.
4. Township lines run east-west while range lines run north-south, creating a systematic way to identify parcels of land across vast areas.
5. This surveying method has had lasting impacts on rural development patterns, influencing how cities and agricultural areas are organized in the United States.

Review Questions

• How does the Township and Range System reflect cultural attitudes toward land ownership and organization in the United States?
  • The Township and Range System reflects a cultural attitude that values orderliness and systematic planning in land ownership. By establishing a grid-like structure for dividing land, it facilitates individual property ownership, which aligns with American ideals of independence and self-sufficiency. This method also allowed for easier management of resources and agricultural practices, reinforcing the connection between land use and economic development in rural America.
• Discuss the implications of the Township and Range System on settlement patterns in rural America.
  • The Township and Range System had significant implications for settlement patterns in rural America by promoting an organized approach to land distribution. The systematic layout encouraged settlers to establish communities based on clear boundaries, resulting in evenly spaced farms and towns. This method also influenced transportation routes, resource management, and agricultural practices, as settlers could easily identify their plots of land and connect with neighboring properties for trade or collaboration.
• Evaluate how the Township and Range System has affected modern urban planning and land use policies in the United States.
  • The Township and Range System has profoundly affected modern urban planning and land use policies by providing a foundational framework for land organization that persists today. As cities have expanded, planners continue to reference this grid system for zoning laws, property divisions, and infrastructure development. The legacy of this method can be seen in suburban layouts where residential, commercial, and agricultural areas are clearly delineated, impacting how communities develop socio-economically while addressing issues like sprawl and sustainability.

Related terms

Section: A section is a one-square-mile parcel of land within a township, which can be further divided into smaller parcels for sale or development.

Meridian: A meridian is a north-south line used as a reference point in the survey system, marking the boundaries for townships and ranges.

Plat Map: A plat map is a detailed diagram that shows the layout of a piece of land, including the division into sections and other subdivisions under the Township and Range System.