Historical Perspectives on Handfasting

[tripleblessed]

Up until the second half of the 19th century, clergy was often scarce in parts of the rural South, especially in the mountains. I have come across references to couples doing a
handfasting and setting up household to put a public face on the relationship in case progeny arrived before clergy could be arranged. Especially if westward migration was in
the offing. When connection could be made with clergy, appropriate rites were done and often considered backdated for the benefit of the children, if any had arrived. Also
mentioned on occasion was the jumping of a broom, which served a similar purpose, i.e., a public announcement of intent to keep joint household and start a family.