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Civil Marriage Entry in Superintendent Registrar's Log: Question about Meaning of "DO"

KerryTuosist (Kerry)

I found a civil marriage record for the year, 1876. I have two questions I'd welcome help with:

1. The abbreviation "DO" is entered in three places: Age of Bride; Rank of Profession of Bride and Father's Rank or Profession. What does "DO" mean?

2. I read that full-age in Ireland for marriage was 21. Is it possible that a young man would say he is full age even though he is under 21?

Thank you in advance,

Mary

 

 

starn1mk@cmich.edu

2 replies

“Do” is a common abbreviation for ditto.  It means a repeat of whatever is written above it.

Yes it is possible that someone might not give their age accurately. That did happen. (No documentary proof of age was required and not everyone knew exactly how old they were). Against that is that with a church marriage, as in this case, the priest would often know the families well, and be in a position to challenge any significant discrepancy.

Elwyn, IrelandXO Volunteer ☘IrelandXO Volunteer

Dear Elywn,

Thank you for explaining both questions I posted. I see a bit more clarity on this record now. I sure appreciate you taking the time to respond.

Best wishes to you this weekend.

Mary

starn1mk@cmich.edu

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