Decided I should reply to the list in case anyone else wanted to know. Hope it helps someone. Ken, In 1850 it would be as follows: At least 2 years before before he could be admitted to citizenship a man must file his "first papers" or declaration of intention. Then after being a resident for at least 5 years he could then present himself to a court again for naturalization. This didn't not have to be the same court as the filing of intent. These were his "final papers" Hope this helps. Patsy patsy@penn.com Researcher for Potter and Tioga Counties in PA http://www.webspawner.com/users/genealogygame >Is anyone familiar with the residency requirements for U. S. citizenship in >the 1850's? ( i.e. the number of years which a person had to be a resident of >the country, the state, the county)????? > >Ken Sullivan >Canyon Lake, Ca > >