AGENCY: District Court (Second District)

SERIES: 26729
TITLE: Certificate of naturalization record books
DATES: 1878-1896.
ARRANGEMENT: Chronological by date.

DESCRIPTION: To become a citizen of the United States during this period, an individual normally filed a "declaration of intention to become a citizen" at least two years prior to applying for citizenship. A naturalization hearing then took place at which time 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 their allegiance to all foreign sovereignties. At this point a certificate of citizenship was issued documenting the fact. These volumes contain standardized certificates of citizenship.

RETENTION

DISPOSITION

RETENTION AND DISPOSITION AUTHORIZATION

These records are in Archives' permanent custody.

FORMAT MANAGEMENT

Paper: Retain in State Archives permanently with authority to weed.

Microfilm master: Retain in State Archives permanently with authority to weed.

Microfilm duplicate: Retain in State Archives permanently with authority to weed.

APPRAISAL

Historical

Disposition based on documentation about individuals, legal procedure, court history and functions. Book(s) serve as a vital record essential for the operation of the court and its ability to fulfill obligations to the public.

PRIMARY DESIGNATION

Public

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