Local marriage customs Marriages usually take place during Shrove in this district because it is the time of feasting before the great fast of Lent. Matches are made in this part of the country, but in other places the parties choose themselves. Money is given as a dowry, but long ago money was scarce stock and goods were given instead. On the morning of the marriage the bride rode behind her future father in law to the chapel. When she was coming home she rode behind her husband on a soft saddle called a pillion or a cullion. Straw boys were at the house to welcome them home, they had great feast and all enjoyed themselves. Eileen Conlan I got this information from my father.Ayva Kunes