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From:
Subject: Re: Marriage Licences
Date: Wed, 03 Oct 2001 12:55:50 -0400
References: <11f.520ac32.28ec88e9@aol.com>


Ruth,
While marriage by license was a frequent occurrence among the wealthier
classes it was also reasonably common among the working class as well especially
if the bride to be was already pregnant (extremely common) or if Lent was not far
off. In the Middle Ages, the established church(es) forbade marriage during
Advent, Lent, & Rogationtide. While the ban around Advent and Rogationtide
eventually wore away, Lent for some reason stayed as a prohibited time in which
to marry for some time after I believe up until the 19th century at least.
Licenses were also obtained if they were likely disputes between the extended
families of the parties or if there was doubt as to parish of residence or time
spent there to meet the requirement of the banns ceremony. Although people
continued to marry be banns the official registering of banns ceased in 1812.

I don't believe there were any major changes in the license act after 1837 and of
course people still continue to marry by banns or license to this day.


Hope this helps somewhat


Richard

Richard J. Meredith
Professional Welsh Historian & Genealogist
Mayfair Research Services
3230 32nd Way
West Palm Beach
Fl, 33407
http://genealogypro.com/mayfair-research.html
http://www.rootsweb.com/~vtwags/Bio7.html


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