Introduction  to Montgomery County

Naturalization Records

 

 

Compiled and Transcribed by Jeanette Lawson, Myra Damewood and Donna Smith

in Cooperation with Montgomery County Historical Society

 

2004 - 2005

 
 

Thank you to the Montgomery County Genealogical Society

 

Declaration of Intent Index

Initially an alien resident filed a declaration of intention, also commonly known as "first papers" with an authorized court, indicating their intention to become a citizen, to renounce all allegiance to any foreign state, and to renounce any foreign title or order of nobility. At least two years after making the declaration (after 1906, no more than seven years later), an alien who had been a resident of the United States for at least five years could petition the court for admission to citizenship.

The names of the applicant and the foreign ruler whose allegiance was renounced and the date are always shown on the declaration. Later declarations also include some or all of the following information: age or birth date; place of birth; date and place of entry into the U.S.; applicant's oath; and affidavits of two witnesses who attested to the applicant's residency and good character.