Married Women’s Property Act of 1882

Until the Married Women’s Property Act of 1870, a husband and wife were considered one under the law, meaning a husband had complete legal control over his wife. When a woman got married, she would lose legal ownership of things such as property to her husband, and if she gained any property, it would also go to her husband. In addition, this made it so that married women were legally incapable of having a job, making them dependent on their husband. Married women essentially had no legal identity.

The Act of 1870, passed by parliament two years after being presented, allowed married women a small amount of financial independence. However, this was limited to newly married women, and did not apply to women who had been married before the act was passed. 

The Married Women’s Property Act of 1882 gave women independence under the law regarding property and other finances. A husband and wife were now considered separate legal entities. Although a women’s social standing remained the same, because women could have financial independence, it was a step towards women’s rights.

I have just discovered that Parliament has passed a second act regarding married women’s property. I recall such an act being declared some years ago, although I did not pay much attention at the time. I have often seen young women on the streets of London passing out information, but it was not until today that I stopped and inquired. These young women were celebrating the acceptance of the act, and after learning what it entails, I must admit I am intrigued. It seems that a woman can control her own legal affairs regardless of her husband. I have never thought of myself as a radical, but when I recall my own husband Geoff obtaining my copyright, I am hesitant to dismiss this as a supercilious cry for attention from girls who were not raised right. Not long before being married-I had quite a quick courtship as my father was sure Geoff would be a good and stable husband- I had acquired a copyright to write a novel-under a male pseudonym of course. However, once I was married, the copyright became Geoffs. Anytime I mentioned the copyright, Geoff would change the subject, or suggest I needlepoint a new handkerchief for him, and eventually, the copyright was forfeited. I never mention this subject, so I assume Geoff believes I lost interest, realizing it was a frivolous waste of time, but that is not the truth. I often think of the time before our marriage, when I occupied my time with things other than darning socks, and the thought makes me somber. Maybe it is time I inquire about a new copyright...