Thirty seven initial points were eventually established. To begin an original survey, an initial point was established in each new area of land by astronomical observations. Any variation because of convergence is placed in the western column and the top row of each township. The intent was to produce sections of land one mile to a side. Quarter sections may be divided into fractional areas, the individual tracts containing 80,40,20,10, or 5 acres or combinations of these sizes. Quarter sections: Each section is divided into quarter sections approximately one-half mile on a side and containing 160 acres. Sections: Each township is divided into 36 sections, each approximately one mile on a side and containing 640 acres.Ĥ. Townships: Each quadrangle contains 16 townships, each approximately 6 miles on a side.ģ. Quadrangles: These square tracts are approximately 24 miles on each side.Ģ. A description of the subdivisions follows:ġ. This is the reason the guide meridians, Figure 14.2, are not continuous, but have an adjustment at each standard parallel. A system of subdivisions was used to adjust for the converging of the meridians. The townships are further divided into 36 sections of approximately 640 acres each and each section is still further subdivided into fractional parts.īecause meridians converge, at the poles, it is mathematically impossible to have a true grid. The quadrangles are divided into townships that are 6 miles square.
Rectangular system of public surveying.Ĭonsider only the 24-mile rectangular surveys. A spacing of 24 miles became the later standard. A few of the original PLSS surveys laid out the lines 30 miles apart. In general, the system establishes a grid by dividing the land by north and south line that follows a true meridian, with a base line that follows a latitude, see Figure 14.1.Īdditional lines parallel to the base line, called standard parallels and lines perpendicular to the base lines, called guide meridians, are added to form quadrangles 24 miles square. The system was adopted in 1785 by the Continental Congress to subdivide new lands northwest of the Ohio River in a logical and systematic manner. The PLSS or rectangular system of public land survey is used in 30 states.
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