AGENCY: District Court (Fifth District : Beaver County)

SERIES: 85177
TITLE: Naturalization record books
DATES: i 1896-1940.
ARRANGEMENT: Chronological by filing date.

DESCRIPTION: 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. These volumes contain standardized certificates of citizenship and any supporting petitions or documentation required.

RETENTION

DISPOSITION

RETENTION AND DISPOSITION AUTHORIZATION

These records are in Archives' permanent custody.

FORMAT MANAGEMENT

Paper: Retain in Office permanently after being microfilmed.

Microfilm master: Retain in State Archives permanently.

Microfilm duplicate: Retain in Office permanently.

Microfilm duplicate: Retain in State Archives permanently.

APPRAISAL

Historical Legal

These records provide detailed information on Beaver county immigrants.

PRIMARY DESIGNATION

Public

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