The most romantic place in Town Hall is the Town Clerk's Office. It is overflowing with red hearts in preparation for the annual Valentine's Day onslaught of couples dashing in to get their free marriage licenses.
When the promotion started in 1962, just one lucky bride and groom were awarded a free license, and they received a corsage for the bride and dinner for two at Dunphy's Tavern.
Things have changed a bit since the '60s. The Town clerk still waives the license fee ($30) and takes a picture, but the offer is good not just for the first couple, but for every couple that shows up at the Town Clerk's office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on February 14.
Also, the couples will be entered into a drawing for a goodie basket from the Town Clerk's office and the Windsor Chamber of Commerce. One of the goodies is a gift certificate from Hair Dresser on Fire.
To commemorate 49 years of Cupid assistance, just as you enter Town Hall, there is a massive display depicting many of the happy winning couples through the years .
The picture for 1966 features Pat Kuszik and her groom Michael. Pat now works at the Town Clerk's office and will be issuing the marriage licenses on Monday. She might also be able to offer advice on having a happy marriage; she and Mike will celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary on February 19.
The license is good for 65 days and you must be married in Windsor. If you are thinking of getting married on Valentine's Day and need an officiant, call the Town Clerk's office to arrange for a justice of the peace. Both parties need to be present to apply for the marriage license and remember to come prepared to fill out the paper work.
You'll need a photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.), your parents' full names and the dates and places of their birth, and the name of the person who will perform the ceremony. If either party is under 18 years of age, their parent or guardian must sign consent for them.
If you have any questions about obtaining a marriage license call the Town Clerk's office at 860-285-1902 and they'll be happy to help you down the aisle.
