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General => The Common Room => Topic started by: Anig on Friday 05 December 08 06:58 GMT (UK)
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On most of the earlier marriage certicficates I've received, witnesses have signed their full names but for my Grandparents one (1948) that I received yesterday, the witnesses names have been transcribed with just their initials and surnames. Did the way people gave their names change over the years? I was really hoping for a better lead than just initials - trying to track down an elusive "Uncle Walter". One of the witnesses is a 'W', but it's not conclusive. ;)
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I've often seen both witnesses and married couple use initials instead of a complete Christian name. Just as common is, as an example, a bride being listed as Mary J. Smith but signing the register as Mary Jane Smyth (her complete name and correct surname).
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If it's any help, each time I've been a witness, I've used my normal signature of initials plus surname. On neither occasion was I asked to use my full name. I did sign with my first name plus initial on my own marriage cert though.
Gadget
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At our daughter's wedding a few months ago, the groom and best man did their usual scribble which generally passes for a signature. The vicar instructed them to print their names in full alongside.
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At our daughter's wedding a few months ago, the groom and best man did their usual scribble which generally passes for a signature. The vicar instructed them to print their names in full alongside.
Well done, the Vicar. that will save someone the headache of searching in the future. :)
nessy