Ethelreda (daughter of Gospatric) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ethelreda |
|
|---|---|
| Queen consort of Scotland | |
| Tenure | 1094 |
| Spouse | Duncan II Waltheof son of Gillemin |
| Issue | William fitz Duncan |
| Father | Gospatric, Earl of Northumbria |
Ethelreda (also known as Etheldreda or Ethreda) was an important woman from a powerful family in early Scotland. She was the daughter of Gospatric, Earl of Northumbria, a very important leader in northern England. Ethelreda is mostly remembered as the mother of William fitz Duncan, who became a significant figure himself. People in Cumberland in the 1200s remembered her story.
Ethelreda's Royal Marriage
Ethelreda married Duncan II, who was the King of Scots. This made her the Queen of Scots! However, her time as queen was quite short. She was queen for only about six months in the year 1094. King Duncan II sadly died on November 12, 1094.
Life After the King's Death
After King Duncan II was killed, Ethelreda likely had to leave quickly. She probably fled with her young son, William fitz Duncan. They found safety in a place called Allerdale in Cumberland. This area was ruled by her brother, Waltheof. It was a safe place for them to go during a difficult time.
New Beginnings and Land
A historical record called the Chronicon Cumbriæ tells us more about Ethelreda's life. It says that her brother Waltheof gave her some land. He shared the areas of Broughton, Ribton, and Little Broughton with her. She shared this land with a man named Waltheof, who was the son of Gillemin. This Waltheof later became her second husband. Over time, more lands belonging to her brother Waltheof would be passed down to Ethelreda's son, William fitz Duncan.
