Need someones good interpretation on this one:

My ancestor on 24 May 1871 claims lands and property in Pittsylvania Co., VA
under the HOMESTEAD LAW.  This included property of desk, bookcase,
sideboard, bureau, beds, furniture, mare, filly, etc.  Can anyone tell me
what this law was?  Did it have anything to do with the aftermath of the
Civil War?  Thank you in advance.  Molly Shumate

_________________________________________________________________
Check out the coupons and bargains on MSN Offers!
http://shopping.msn.com/softcontent/softcontent.aspx?scmId=1418

To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at
http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html