Does anybody know what a Bondsman is and does during the 17th century regarding a marriage? See usage below. Walter--Do you know? This is in a list of marriage licenses granted in the Diocese of Chester. Why would anyone need a bondsman to get married? 16 Sept 1624 "Thomas Dutton and Mary Renny, Parish of Manchester, Spinster. Bondsman, Ralph Dutton. At Manchester." Carole