Pronunciation:
[ma-rij
bond] •
(noun)
Related Resources:
Genealogy Research in Vital Records
Definition:
In earlier times, a marriage bond was given to the
court by the intended groom prior to his marriage. It affirmed that there was no
moral or legal reason why the couple could not be married and it also affirmed
that the groom would not change his mind. If he did, and did not marry the
intended bride, he would forfeit the bond. The bondsman, or surety, was often a
brother or uncle to the bride, not necessarily a parent. The bondsman could also
be related to the groom, or even be a neighbor or friend, but those situations occurred
less often.
Related Terms
• banns
• consent
affidavit
• dowry
• marriage
record
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Marriage
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