Do not assume that every immigrant naturalized in his new country. If an immigrant was not interested in voting or running for political office, becoming a citizen might not have been high on his priority list before the early 20th century. Immigrants could often own land and sell and bequeath it without being a citizen–although those rights were governed by state statute. So if you can’t find any proof that your 1860 immigrant naturalized, consider the possibility that he never naturalized. ———————————— Check out GenealogyBank’s Offer for Tip of the Day Fans!
Today I presented “Proving Benjamin” discussing how 1850, 1870, and 1880 enumerations for a man in three different states were shown to be the same man. This New York native was born around 1820 in New York State and lived in Michigan, Iowa, Missouri, and possibly other states as well as Canada. Dealing with individuals with similar names, people who move all over, and conflicting information are discussed. Compounding the issue is that Benjamin is enumerated with a different name in 1880. This webinar (and handout) can be ordered for $8.00 for immediate download. ———————————— Check out GenealogyBank’s Offer for Tip of the Day Fans!
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