This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: thomasamurray1 Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/topics.loyalists/772.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Since most Loyalists were born in what became the United States of America, they were already citizens, or at least natives. Not all Loyalists left the US in 1783; mostly those whose property had been confiscated. Also, many Loyalists later returned with no need for any special documentation. Later, Loyalist descendants, born outside the USA, would have to apply for citizenship. I would imagine that Thomas Alva Edison's father would likely have had to apply even though his father's parents were likely from New Jersey. Would not the naturalization papers you mention suggest a place-of-origin? Thomas. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board. <br>