The marriage record generally consists of a marriage license and marriage
bond/application. In Knox County between the years 1792-1929, a marriage
bond in the amount of $1250 was required from the intended groom. The
marriage bond affirmed there was no moral or legal reason why the couple
could not be married. The bondsman, or surety, was often a brother, father,
uncle or friend of the bride or groom, someone willing to vouch for the
groom and accept the liability of the $1250 bond. In 1929, the marriage bond
system was changed to the application system that we are familiar with today.
Copies of the original records can be obtained from the Archives. Please
contact us by phone, mail or e-mail for a price quote.
