Kissin' Cousins

Although courtship rituals and varied among the colonies, it was generally considered unfavorable to remain in a single state regardless of where one lived. A single woman at the age of 22 in Virginia would be considered an old maid and, although she may have to reach 27 in New England to wear the label, she would still be frowned upon. Some colonies went so far as to levy a tax on bachelors. Even though marriage was expected, it was more difficult to achieve the state favorably in some colonies. Usually, once an agreement among the parents had been reached (in the south) or the match was favorable to all parties involved (in New England), banns must be posted for several days to allow anyone to speak out against the marriage. It must be noted, however, that among the Quakers, the marriage had to be accepted by the family, the meeting and the community. Marriage between first or second cousins was forbidden and there was a total of sixteen phases that must be completed before the actual marriage ceremony. Finally, marriage outside the Society of Friends was strictly forbidden and would result in banishment from the religion. Consequently, the mid-Atlantic colonies had a higher rate of non-married people than any other area.

The Courtship of George and Martha

It could be said that George and Martha Washington had a whirlwind courtship. After spending about 20 hours together on no more than two occasions, the future President and first lady were engaged to be wed. Although not the first love of his life, Martha Dandridge Custis, the twenty-six year old widow of Daniel Parke Custis, became the agreeable recipient of Washington's marriage proposal. A year older than the bridegroom, Martha possessed qualities that made her the most desirable woman in Virginia: an agreeable disposition and 17 thousand acres of prime farmland, producing primarily tobacco. If not for fate, one of the most respected couples in American history might never have married.

It has been said that George Washington was shy around women. It is no doubt that the first few objects of his affection did not return his enthusiasm. George also seemed to be drawn to ladies who would provide him with an improved financial and social standing in Virginia society. (Washington led a comfortable but not luxurious life.)

At the age of 20, Washington set his cap for Betsy Fauntleroy, the daughter of a Richmond justice and burgess.

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