The Federal Statutes provide that mining claims may be located either by citizens of the United States, or by those who have declared their intention to become citizens.1 Under this statute it has been held that a private corporation formed under the laws of a state, whose members are citizens of the United States, may locate a mining claim on the public lands of the United States.2 A minor may become a locator of mineral lands under this statute. No requirement that the citizen shall be of any particular age is expressed.3