Genealogy Chat

Hi jenny One of mine was also my great grandfathers daughter from his first marriage witnessing his second , this then gave me her married name it took a bit of work but i got there in then end. so in my case yes they can be very helpfull. Theresa. x

I had a great clue with a witness. It was my g grandfather's third marriage, the witness was the sister of his late wife with an unusual name which lead me to finding the former wife. The same witness also witnessed his will after his third marriage. Anne

It's too long and boring to repeat my story, but one of my witnesses was a brother-in-law, who's name was also on a will, which gave me more proof that I had tracked down the correct family. So, in this case, the witness helped confirm I had the correct bride and groom.

So far most of my marriage witnesses have either been neighbours or relatives, often the sister of the bride who was probably bridemaid or maid of honour I suppose ,even found a clue to a double wedding.... KIM

Hi, Several of my ancestors' marriages were witnessed by the parish clerk. I think this was quite common so bear that in mind. Gwynne

Hello Jenny you might find that marriage witnesses could give you clues. Mine often seem to be relatives and one turned out to be a sister's husband giving me a married name. I think it's always worth considering witnesses just in case they can help you with those brickwalls. Sarah

Hello still reasonably new to this. Looking back through the certificates I've got in search of some hidden clues I may have missed and I wondered if the witnesses on marriage certs can normally give any help. Any advice a greatfully received.