The original Roman Catholic marriage certificate documenting the union of Thurston Joseph Moore and Kim Althea Gordon, solemnized on June 9, 1984, at the Church of Saint Mary, Bethel, Connecticut, according to the rite of the Holy Roman Catholic Church. Discovered as a bookmark inside a book purchased at an estate sale.
Historical Context
Thurston Moore and Kim Gordon co-founded Sonic Youth in New York City in 1981 and remained life and creative partners for nearly three decades, until their separation in 2011. Their relationship was inseparable from the identity, direction, and creative output of Sonic Youth — one of the most critically acclaimed and influential bands in the history of American independent and alternative music. This certificate predates the band’s rise to prominence and records the formal beginning of a partnership that would define a significant chapter in modern music history.
The document bears the full legal names of both parties — Thurston Joseph Moore and Kim Althea Gordon — and the names of the officiating priest and both witnesses, providing a uniquely complete and personal window into the private lives of two of the most significant figures in alternative music. Documents of this kind from figures of this cultural significance enter the collector market only rarely.
Specifications
· Type: Original Roman Catholic marriage certificate booklet
· Printed form: “This is to Certify” format on cream stock; Holy Roman Catholic Church rite
· Names: Thurston Joseph Moore and Kim Althea Gordon
· Date: June 9, 1984
· Venue: Church of Saint Mary, Bethel, Connecticut
· Officiant: Rev. Peter A. DeMarco
· Witnesses: Harold Paris; Susan Moore Erdman
· Cover: Cream textured stock bearing “Marriage Certificate” in script with Chi Rho cross motif
Condition
Good. The certificate exhibits age-consistent yellowing, light fold lines from storage, and minor foxing consistent with decades of handling and storage as a loose document. All text remains fully legible. The cover shows light surface wear.
Provenance
Discovered as a bookmark inside a book acquired at an estate sale. The seller contacted the Church of Saint Mary, Bethel, Connecticut, who confirmed the document’s authenticity. No formal written authentication accompanies this lot beyond the church’s verbal confirmation. No COA or LOA is included.
Nostalgia Bandit Letter of Provenance
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Shipping & Measurements
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