While you are technically correct, I stand by my position. These were just what they say they are. A DECLARATION. A document that at that point was not necessarily verified. The naturalization was another matter. But if researchers are not finding the information they seek, they should look at the port of entry for the Declaration papers. I have found some this way. Dee Doyle -----Original Message----- From: Linda C. Ruscitto <ruscitto@buffnet.net> To: dmd <dmd@access-one.com>; NJESSEX-L@rootsweb.com <NJESSEX-L@rootsweb.com> Date: Monday, December 28, 1998 1:57 AM Subject: Re: Naturalizations >At 08:34 PM 12/22/98 -0600, dmd wrote: >>I believe you are incorrect about the two year residential requirement. >>Otherwise, one would not find Declaration of Intent at the port of entry. >>Dee > > >Sorry, Dee, but according to the NARA, aliens were required to have resided >for 2 years before applying for a "declaration of Intent" (first papers). >The only exception to this rule was for honorably discharged veterans >(beginning in 1862). > >I don't know of any other reason for finding a dclaration of Intent at the >port of entry other than that was near where the alien resided at the time >he applied - which would be at least 2 years after immigrating to this >country. > >>> For more complete information visit the National Archives website at >>> <http://www.nara.gov/genealogy/natural.html> >>> >>> hope this helps, >>> Linda >>> E Amherst, NY