Since 1922, women have been required to obtain their own citizenship. Minor children automatically became citizens when their fathers received citizenship. Researchers should note that about 25 percent of aliens never became citizens or made only a declaration to become a citizen. Many people filed only a declaration of intent, because, according to the Wisconsin constitution, it was all they needed in order to vote. Also, the extent and type of information contained in naturalization records changes over time.
Recent records are much more detailed.
The names of the applicant and the foreign ruler whose allegiance was renounced and the date are always shown on the declaration. After serving the required period of residency, the applicant petitioned the court for admission to citizenship. The court then issued a naturalization certificate. The petition consisted of the applicant's petition to the court, an oath of allegiance, and affidavits of two witnesses attesting to the petitioner's good character and residency. The petition may also include the order of the court admitting the applicant to citizenship, especially for records filed after 1902.