The Secret Language of Timber Framers

Timber framers historically developed various marking and matching systems to assemble structures, with Roman numerals being the most commonly used, although other methods existed. As European carpenters migrated to the New World, they brought these techniques, leaving behind examples in 17th and 18th-century roof timbers along the East Coast. These markings, known as "marriage marks" or "carpenter's marks," were crucial for identifying how different pieces fit together, often indicating the placement of peg holes. These marks, typically etched with chisels, scribes, saws, or knives, were particularly prevalent in the 1800s and earlier.

Marriage Marks in the attic of the old Parson/Warren House, Hampden, MA

A possible mark indicating a horizontal level line was found on a few posts at opposite ends.

Early timber frames were meticulously scribed, with each joint uniquely crafted to fit precisely with its counterpart. During the pre-assembly and test-fitting stages, marks were made to ensure that the pieces could be easily matched during the frame's final assembly. The most common marking system involved straight lines forming Roman numerals, as these were the simplest to cut into timber. In seventeenth-century Massachusetts Bay, using Roman numerals was the standard preference. Adjacent beams often bore identical numerals, and to distinguish marks when the same numerals were needed in multiple locations, carpenters would sometimes use chisels of varying sizes. Marking systems could vary by individual builder, time period, building type, and location.

With the advent of the square rule method, which standardized the cutting of joints, the use of marriage marks declined. However, some timber framers continue to use them today as a practical aid during assembly and as a nod to past craftsmanship. These marks serve as labels, guiding carpenters on where each timber belongs within the structure. 

Marriage marks are most commonly associated with scribed frames, where each timber was custom-fitted to a specific location. In such cases, it was common for each intersection to have its own unique mark, often in the form of Roman numerals, which were easier and quicker to carve into the wood than curved Arabic numerals. Modifiers, such as flags or different chisel sizes, were sometimes used to indicate specific building sides or floor levels, avoiding the need for complex numerals. For example, one wall might start at I, with a flag indicating direction, or different chisels could be used to differentiate walls.

A notable home in South Wilbraham, Hampden, is the  Parson Warren House, situated at 653 Main Street. 

Parson Warren House, situated at 653 Main Street, Hampden, MA. 

The Parson Warren House is a historic property that dates back to 1784 when William King sold it to Zenas Parsons. The deed mentions an existing house on the land, suggesting that Mr. King may have constructed a portion of the current structure before that year. Zenas Parsons eventually entered into joint ownership of the property with Thomas Dwight, and in 1789, Reverend Moses Warren, South Parish of Wilbraham’s first minister, purchased the corner from both men. 

This House serves as an excellent example of the use of marriage marks by the timber framers who constructed it. Throughout the attic, you can observe numerous corresponding Roman numeral marks etched into the wood, which were used to guide the assembly of the structure. This quality work showcases the craftsmanship and traditional building techniques employed during the house's construction.

If you own a historic house, look closely to see if you can uncover these marriage marks that might be hiding in plain sight. Doing so may deepen your appreciation for the skilled craftsmen of the past, whose work contributed significantly to the growth of our country.

The variety of marriage marks is extensive, varying by region, country, and even within the same locality. Unfortunately, our understanding of the different systems used and their distribution is still incomplete.