skänkerfärd

Skänkerfärd is a historical Swedish term referring to a practice where a bride's family would give a "skänken" or dowry to the groom. This dowry could consist of various items, often including livestock, household goods, and sometimes land or money. The purpose of the skänken was to help the new couple establish their household and to compensate the groom's family for the cost of supporting their son. The value and composition of the skänken varied greatly depending on the social standing and wealth of the bride's family. It was an important part of the marriage contract and negotiations, often reflecting the social and economic status of both families. In some regions and periods, the skänkerfärd could also include symbolic items or traditions that were specific to local customs. This practice was common in rural Sweden for centuries, gradually declining with societal changes and evolving marriage customs.