This thesis involved a detailed study of the development and evolution of Francophone land settlement at Willow Bunch and Gravelbourg, in southwestern Saskatchewan. This included a discussion of migration, including the role of the priest, chain migration and economic factors. The study of the settlement pattern described general choices for settlement areas, and specific settlement patterns. The description of the specific settlement patterns at Willow Bunch was split into (1) the 1880-1905 period, when ranching predominated, and (2) later settlement, when many chose land for farms. The effect of Métis settlement was also discussed. At Gravelbourg, the 'reserve' for Francophones, mentioned but never elaborated in secondary sources, was described. Squatter land choices at Gravelbourg and early settlers' choices at Willow Bunch were analyzed. Analysis considered soil quality, availability of water and wood, transportation, proximity to town, conationals, relatives and acquaintances. Analysis of the post-establishment period described Francophone stayers and leavers. This was split into (1) the prove-up period and (2) the post-patent period, until 1926. At the most general level, the effects of overall soil quality, climate, prices and transportation were described. Conflict within the community, particularly at Gravelbourg, was also briefly considered. More specific analysis sought to differentiate stayers from leavers according to the capability (for farming) of the land they had chosen, their origins, birthplaces, previous residences, geographic propinquity, family and previous occupations. Other factors, such as homesteaders' and their family's wealth, wellness, and liking for the area, were also discussed. During the post-patent period additional analysis considered the number of quarters patent, along with settlers' ages and wealth. In the end, the evolution of the Francophone settlement pattern was influenced, not only by persistence, but also by purchasing patterns. The effect of purchasing patterns that contributed to the persistence of the Francophone community at Willow Bunch and the decline of the Métis community were discussed. Purchasing patterns at Gravelbourg that contributed to the persistence of the Francophone community were described.