Ladies born on Feb.29 had a special advantage. They didn't have to lie about
how many birthdays they had had. And on Feb. 29, a special custon prevailed:

Valley Spirit, January 11, 1860, p. 5 , c. 1: "Leap Year." The Spirit reminds women that, by tradition, they are allowed to propose marriage during leap year. Includes a letter from one young woman who is "in want of a husband. Any good looking young gentleman with mustache, and ten thousand dollars, can have my hand certain and, perhaps, my heart too if I can fancy him."

Valley Spirit, February 15, 1860, p. 5, c. 2: "St. Valentine." Editors find love letters sparse on St. Valentine Day. "Ladies must either not like to pre-pay postage, or think that this is not a very formidable way to attack the citadel of a man's heart."

Valley Spirit, October 31, 1860, p. 5 , c. 2: "Now Is the Time." Reminds young unmarried women that leap year, when women are allowed to do the courting, is almost over. By the time the next leap year occurs, these women will be old maids. The Spirit thus urges them to make good use of the remaining year.