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An Act for the Better Preventing of Clandestine Marriages
This pamphlet reprints the Marriage Act of 1753, the first British law requiring a formal marriage ceremony. Published by John Baskett in London, the act aimed to end clandestine marriages, particularly those occurring in Fleet Prison. The act detailed regulations for parish marriages, including the publication of banns, ministerial notification, and license requirements. Failure to comply resulted in transportation to the American colonies. Significantly, the act exempted members of the Royal Family, Quakers, Jews, and those in Scotland or abroad.
Associated People/Businesses
- Thomas Baskett (Firm)
Geography
Subjects
- Marriage law
- Great Britain
- Marriage customs and rites
- Great Britain
- Great Britain
- History
- 18th century
- Jews
- Legal status, laws, etc.
Physical Location
Arc.MS.56, Box 19, Folder 5