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Dear all,

With regards to Olden Day Weddings (i.e. 100+ years ago), there always seem to be a male witness and a female witness. I've always taken the assumption that these would, more than likely, be the best man and bridesmaid.

D'you think is a reasonable supposition to make, or is it frightfully wide of the mark...?

Stephen

Over 100 years ago...probably 150+ years it was not so common to see a female witness.

Further back, one (or both) of the witnesses tended to be the .....verger? Someone associated with the church. (not familiar with the titles of the church helpers)

Need to look at a few of my certs to see if I agree with the bestman/bridesmaid thing

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Mel

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Looking at the marriages that I have both the details and a photo for that took place 100+ years (ish), I think I'd agree Stephen....it seems a fair assumption.

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Mel

Searching for lost relatives? Win the Lottery!

Mel,

Sounds rather feasible to me.

Always found it a shame, however, how C of E baptismal records never detail who the godparents are. RC records always give this lovely detail (which helps show who the parents were close to at the time), but C of E stuff seems to be lacking. Unless anyone knows of any untapped resources...