I am trying to find Naturliaztion Records for Emile Gerard.
He arrived in 1919 on the SS Shoshone (US Military ship) in Philadelphia (France was native country).
1920 Census - in Ann Arundel, MD with an adopted family( 16 years)
1930 Census - in Reading, PA (26 years).
1931 Marriage - living in Ephrata PA prior to marriage.

On his ship record there is a stamped date (Apr 27 1928) and a number that appears to be handwritten by a different person. Could that be a clue to his Naturalization date? He was definitely a citizen prior to 1931. It is my understanding that naturalizations took place in the local courthouse. Is there any sort of national index? If not, I am going to have to search 3 different counties in 2 states-- so I want to be sure there are not any shortcuts first :)

Thanks for your time
Michelle
wilcoxrph@gmail.com