Bishops' Transcripts
Bishops' Transcripts are copies of the parish registers which were sent to the local bishop. These commence about 1598 and they are useful for the genealogist where the original parish records have been lost. Not all Bishops' transcripts have survived and where they have, there may be discrepancies between the information in the original registers and that which was sent to the Bishop. The Bishops' transcripts rarely extend beyond the middle of the 19th century and non exsist for The Commonwealth Period from 1649 to 1660.

Uses and limitations
The transcripts available to genealogists are themselves copies of the originals therefore further mistakes could have been made during transcription. If both the parish records and the bishops' transcipts are available it is best to compare them. Both types of records may have additional notes that are not on the other.

Where can they be found?
They can be viewed at the Counties record offices. They can be purchased on microfiche from some record offices. Family History societies may also have records for their area.

Written By Ancestry Aid Member: Starlight

MARRIAGE BONDS AND ALLEGATIONS

What are they?
]Most marriages took place after banns had been called in the parish church for three consecutive weeks. However, some couples married by licence which meant that calling of banns was not required (often either because they wished to marry quickly or away from their own parish). The couple applied for a licence by submitting an allegation (a sworn declaration that there was no impediment to the marriage) and a bond (a sworn document by a bondsman that there was no impediment to the marriage and also provided a monetary guarantee).
After 1823 a bond was no longer required to obtain a marriage licence.

What information might they give?
  • The name of the bride and groom
  • The name of their parish.
  • Their ages and occupations.
  • Parents were also named if either party was under the age of 21.
  • The name and occupation of the bondsman is also given.
[Where can they be found?
They are generally to be found at local records offices.

Uses and limitations
These records usually give additional information to that available on the marriage record. The bondsman was often a relative, which may give further clues in searching for family members. Very early marriage bonds were written in Latin. The existence of a marriage bond does not necessarily mean that the marriage took place. Only a small proportion of couples were married by licence.

Written By Ancestry Aid Member: Gillian

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