P. Mottice naturalization papers

The original copy of this document is on microfiche in the Stark County Library in Canton, OH.  This is one of the most puzzling elements of the Mottice family history.  Naturalization papers exist to confer nationality upon a person.  This one clearly states that Peter Mottice was being awarded status as a U.S. citizen in 1847, and that he previously was a citizen of France (King Louis Phiilippe was monarch in 1847).  Yet all family accounts have Peter born in the U.S.

Stark County, Ohio, Common Pleas Journal, vol. Q, page 581

April 19,1847

Be it remembered that Louis Gulliry, Peter Mottice Senior, Christian Elsass and Frederick ???, aliens and subjects of the King of France, Nicholas Laugis, and alien and subject of the King of Holland and Luxemburg, and John Schrenck, and alien and subject of the King of Wurtenburg come and in open court make application to be naturalized citizens under the laws of the United States, and it appearing to the court by satisfactory evidence that the said applicants for more than three years preceding their arriving at the age of 21 years, and that for at least five years last past have resided within the limits of the United States one year within which this state that they have during that time behaved as men of good moral character attached to the principles of the Constitution of the United States and well disposed to the good order and happiness of the same, and that for at least three years last past it has been their intention to become citizens of the United States, the oath of intention in good faith for three years last past to become citizens of the United States, and the oath of allegiance is here administered to the said applicants in due form of law.  And it is ordered that certificate of naturalization be issued to them on payment of the cost of this proceeding.