District Court (First District : Rich County) Declaration of Intention record books, 1896-1922

This series contains bound volumes with forms used to document an individuals intent to become a naturalized citizen. Filing of a "declaration of intention to become a citizen" at least two years prior to applying for citizenship was the first step in the naturalization process. The next step was a 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. These volumes contain recorded copies of the declarations of individuals' intentions to later become United States citizens and to renounce current citizenship. The first forms contain little more than the declarant's name and native country, but forms after 1906 contain more detailed information about both the individual and his family.