Thursday, May 30, 2019

Thames (NZ): Thamesites' 'Memorial for Naturalisation'

There are many new digitised files (relating to Thames) that are available for viewing at Archives New Zealand. A literal goldfield awaits the genealogist and history researcher.

In the past it was necessary to pay for copies of 'Naturalisation' but now many can be viewed and downloaded.

At the search box, for instance enter "Kauaeranga Naturalisation".
The are are seven 'results' - people who were granted naturalisation while living up the Kauaeranga.
  • Ivan Nikolas Curin, Kauaeranga - Thames Date (received): 22 June 1906 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. Native of Austria.
  • Jorgine E [Emile] Lundberg, Kauaeranga, Thames Date: 22 March 1907 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. A midwife from Norway.
  • George Curin, Kauaeranga Date: 19 May 1908 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. A bushman from Austria.
  • Stephan Jerkovich, Kauaeranga Date: 11 September 1908 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. A Gumdigger originally from Austria.
  • Nicholas Fistonich, Kauaeranga Date: 11 September 1908 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. A Gumdigger originally from Austria.
  • Nicholas Vojkovich, Kauaeranga Date: 11 September 1908 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. A Gumdigger originally from Austria.
  • Nikola Barbalich, Kauaeranga [Thames] Date: 5 October 1908 Subject: Memorial for Naturalisation. A farmer originally from Austria.
Repeat this process using search words "Thames Naturalisation" and you will find further Memorial statements and documents.

What do the forms look like?
The contents of each file varies, some examples follow. It relates to George Curin and includes his 'Oath of Allegiance', and Application for Naturalisation. Others give details of age, how long in New Zealand, occupation, place of birth and other relevant information.

  

Above the forms were approved by the local Magistrate.

Background Reading
Citizenship in New Zealand. Includes full details on changes to naturalisation over the years.