Name Signing Conventions

[Anig]

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. 

[aghadowey]

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).

[Gadget]

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

[GeoffE]

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.

[nessy]

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