District Court (Fifth District : Beaver County) Certificates of citizenship record books, 1896-1900.

To become a citizen of the United States, an individual normally filed a "declaration of intention to become a citizen" at least two years prior to applying for citizenship. The next step was the naturalization hearing at which the candidate and witnesses either made oral statements or filed written petitions and affidavits attesting to the applicant's character, worthiness to become a citizen, and the validity of statements made to the court. If the judge found the applicant eligible to become a citizen, an oath was administered and the individual renounced his former citizenship. At this point a certificate of citizenship was issued documenting the fact. The certificates in this series summarize the hearing and oaths.

The applicant's name and current nationality were noted. The applicant was required to give evidence that he had declared his intention to become a citizen at least two years earlier. Two U.S. citizens attested that the applicant had resided in the United States atleast five years and in Utah territory at least one year. They also testified that the applicant was of good moral character and behaved in a manner supportive of the U.S. Constitution. The applicant was sworn to support the Constitution and renounce allegiance to his former nation and particularly, by name, to its ruler.