This is a very simple explanation of the Marriage Banns and Bonds. In the Anglican Church (England) and in the Catholic Church, the Church will post marriage banns for usually 3 weeks in a row. If any one had debts that were owning them or if they knew of another marriage or felt the grooms character was not good they could come forward during this time. If no complaints came forward, or if someone did come forward, the groom would settle the claim and then the marriage would take place. Banns were for the protection of the bride and settlement of the groom. Now in matter to the Bonds. Money was put up by a good friend or family person testifying to the fact that the groom was clear of all debts and was not married to anyone else. These banns and bonds have provided us with another record in our quest of finding our family. When you do research in NC and other states sometimes all you have is the marriage bonds and there is no record of the marriage. This is really a simple answer but I hope it helps. DeAnne