Gretna Green
Posted by The Mysterious H.C. on September 04, 1998 at 08:41:55:
In response to Just wondering..., written by Emma Elizabeth Anne on September 04, 1998 at 02:46:49
] 1. Why is it that whenever anyone elopes, they head straight for Gretna Green? What's special about Gretna Green? I've got a feeling its something about the marriage customs being different there, but is there anyone who can shed light on this little mystery for me?
From 1754 to 1857, the marriage laws in England and Scotland differed such that a marriage where one or both parties was "under age" (below 21) could go forward without consent of parents/guardians in Scotland, but not in England.
Gretna Green was just the closest settlement in Scotland from most points in England (it was the first village over the border on the main west-coast road).
I have a little info, and a map, on this page.
- This belongs to Ramble, but...;-) sanna 09:16:08 9/05/98
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- Yes, and not only that but..... Cyndie 00:07:21 9/05/98
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- Niagara Falls Golda 11:05:11 9/04/98
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