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Archiver > NCROOTS > 1998-08 > 0902761071


From: "Michelle Roberts" <>
Subject: RE: NCROOTS-D Digest V98 #335 - Bastardy Bonds
Date: Mon, 10 Aug 1998 09:57:51 -0500


How do you find record of this type of pregnancy/birth in 1909 - about 3
years before NC began registering births?

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Sent:Monday, August 10, 1998 3:54 AM
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Subject:Re: NCROOTS-D Digest V98 #335 - Bastardy Bonds

Jack in Oklahoma:

Am quoting from "North Carolina Bastary Bonds" by Betty J. Camin:

"The 'Bastary Bonds' of North Carolina are just as the title states - bonds
posted because of the birth or impending birth of a bastard child. These
bonds were intended to protect the county or parish from the expense of
raising the child.
---
When the pregancy of a woman or birth of a child was brought to the
attention
of the court, a warrant was issued and the woman was brought into court.
She
was examined (questioned) under oath and asked to declare the name of the
child's father. The reputed father was then served a warrant and required
to
post bond. If the woman refused to name the father, she, her father or some
other interested party would post the bond. In some cases it was found that
the mother and reputed father posted the bond. If the woman refused to post
bond or declare the father, she was often sent to jail. "

Pretty strong stuff! Wonder what would happen it they tried that today?

On a personal note - just saw the stage production of "Oklahama" again - it
was just as good as ever - I sang every song right along with them. I was
so
close to the stage the players were aware of my total involvement. It's
always been my favorite show.

Sylvia, Greenville, Pitt Co, NC

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