The Leap Year Proposals Story
There are many stories about how this quaint Leap Year tradition of women being allowed to pop the question came into being, however, today’s women naturally make their own choices.
The generally accepted story is that back in the 5th century St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick that women were kept waiting too long for marriage proposals.
St. Patrick then decreed that each Leap Year, on this one day, women would be allowed to propose to their suitors.
However, it was not until the 13th century across the sea to Scotland that there is the first documented instance of this happening.
To add to the mix and to further balance the scales of matrimonial justice, a law was passed, decreeing that any suitor who refused his proposal must pay the penalty of a princely fine.
This could range from a silk gown to 12 pairs of gloves for the jilted woman.
So ladies this is your opportunity – but to keep faith with the legend, while popping the question you should wear a scarlet petticoat!