Genie’s Genealogical Tip No. 1

When searching for marriage records, don’t forget to consider “marriage bonds” and “marriage banns”.

Marriage bonds were posted by the groom at the clerk of the court in the bride’s county of residence. The purpose was to show the groom’s intent on marriage and that there were no legal impediments to the marriage. The father or brother of the bride along with the groom also could post the bond to help with the cost in the event the marriage was invalidated. Some bonds go back to the mid to late 1700s. It must be noted that bonds were not required by all states or colonies.

Marriage banns (a practice during colonial times) are public announcements made usually in church regarding an upcoming marriage. They were read out loud at least three Sundays or meetings in a row, and were documented in parish church minutes and bulletins. Many times they were posted in public places. Their purpose was to give anyone the opportunity to object to the pending marriage based upon legitimate reasons or concerns, such as a pre-existing marriage, individuals’ consent, illegal age, and so on.