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Gretna Green History

The Tradition of Handfasting

Why you should visit Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop for a traditional 'Spontaneous Blessing'

A quick look at Handfasting history

The History of Handfasting

South of the border

The term ‘handfasting’ is both the historical term for a wedding, or ‘betrothal’ in Great Britain and Ireland, and also the word for a wedding in Neopaganism.

Throughout the middle ages, from the 12th to the 17th century, handfasting was commonly the term used in England to simply mean ‘engaged to be married’ and was a ceremony that was held, generally around a month prior to the official church wedding; to demonstrate the couple’s commitment and a form of contract and as a declaration of their intention to marry. It was, however, still a legally binding marriage and considered valid; though many couples and their families still did not consider this the case until after the church ceremony. But, as with any church weddings, handfasting could only be distinguished by death.

Legend of the Blacksmiths Anvil Priest

In its heyday, the Blacksmiths Shop was at the centre of village life. The village blacksmith was always at work making horseshoes, fixing carriages and farm equipment ... and was one of the most respected figures within the village. Following changes in 1754 which increased the restrictions facing young couples who wished to marry, the differences in law led to a flow of young lovers desperate to marry running away over the border...stopping in the first village they came to (most famously our wee village of Gretna Green). As a highly respected member of the community, the Blacksmith was frequently sought by these couples....and soon the 'anvil priest' arose.

 

The Anvil in Gretna Green – Ever wondered why?

Each year thousands of couples make the journey here to Gretna Green to get 'married over the anvil' and it's a tradition which is entrenched in history as far back as 1754 when English lords voted to change the marriage act. For couples in England this meant they had to be over 21 and gain their parents' permission to be married. Scotland however did not adopt this law and continued on its way with irregular marriages which in essence meant you could marry anywhere as a declaration in front of only 2 witnesses.

Still this does not really answer about the anvil question though, or does it...?


Gretna Green and the Border Reivers

Can you trace your family history back to the Scottish Borders region with a family name of Moffat, Bell, Graham, Irvine or even Bates, Little, Thomson, Glendenning, Carruthers, Johnstone, Jardine or Latimer?? You may be descended from the families of the infamous Border Reivers....

Gretna Green and our romantic myths....

Ask almost anyone about Gretna Green and most people will answer with a remark about runaway weddings...but what do we actually know about the place? Since we've entered the month of mystery and intrigue (Halloween will be here before any of us realise!), we thought it would be interesting to compile a list of Gretna Green stories ... and reveal the truth behind them!

 

1960's Delivery Bike Discovered at Gretna Green

Over the years, we have been lucky to meet so many different people in the Famous Blacksmiths Shop from so many varied walks of life, and it's certainly true that it's a place that holds special memories for many of our visitors.

One recent visit in particular turned out to be very nostalgic for Roger Claymore who we were delighted to meet a few weeks ago in our carriage museum, and he shared his story with us...

Surprise Ties for the Tough Family

Another little piece of Gretna Green History...

Last weekend, we were visited by 3 generations of a family, with a very special connection to Gretna Green's Famous Blacksmiths Shop.

Geraldine Davey (nee Tough) had been visiting Gretna Green, namely the Famous Blacksmiths Shop, for a friend's wedding when she spotted an old photo hanging up of a 'Mr & Mrs John Tough' and upon inspection it turned out to be her Great Aunt and Uncle...

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