Many records were created when immigrant ancestors became American citizens. Learn what they are and how to find them.

Audience Level: Beginner/Intermediate

Since the process to become a US citizen hasn’t always looked the same, different records from different time periods will be shown, and strategies to find naturalization records over the years will be discussed. The lecture will cover: • Naturalization laws from 1790 to present • How naturalization records changed over time • The Federalization of naturalization • Derivative citizenship (via one’s husband or father) • Where to look for naturalization records.

Rich Venezia is a New Jersey native who now calls Pennsylvania home. He founded Rich Roots Genealogy in 2013. He was a member of the research team of Genealogy Roadshow (PBS) for two seasons, and also consulted on Follow Your Past (Travel Channel). He is an expert in the research of 20th-century immigrant ancestors, especially underutilized record sources and federal records. He also specializes in Italian and Irish research. Additionally, he assists clients with dual citizenship applications for Ireland and Italy, and is a proud Italian dual citizen. He holds a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University. He lectures nationwide, and spoke about "How to Grow Empathy From Uncovering Your Roots" at TEDx Pittsburgh 2017. 

For those members who prefer not to attend in person, we are also broadcasting our meetings via GotoWebinar. Members wishing to view from home must register for the virtual broadcast prior to the meeting date.  A registration link will be sent to members prior to the meeting date.