Gertrude Aston Thimelby facts for kids
Gertrude Aston Thimelby (1617–1668) was an English writer and poet. Later in her life, she became a Roman Catholic nun.
Life Story
Gertrude Aston Thimelby was one of ten children. Her father was Sir Walter Aston, a British diplomat. He later became a Baron. Her mother was also named Gertrude. The family lived in Tixall and Colton in Staffordshire. Gertrude wrote poems as part of a group of Catholic writers. This group is now called the 'Astons of Tixall'.
In 1620, her father traveled to Spain as an ambassador. He took his wife and children, including Gertrude, with him. Sir Walter lived in Spain for six years. During this time, he became a Roman Catholic.
In 1645, Gertrude married Henry Thimelby. His family was Catholic and did not follow the official Church of England. Henry's sister, Katherine, was also a poet. She was married to Gertrude's brother, Herbert.
In 1658, Gertrude's husband and only child passed away. After this, Gertrude became a nun at St. Monica's Convent in Louvain. Her sister-in-law, Winefrid Thimelby, was the Prioress (the head nun) there. Winefrid was known for writing many letters. Sister Gertrude passed away in 1668.
The Aston and Thimelby families, along with their friends, shared and collected poems and letters. Today, we know about these writings because their descendants later put them into books.
More Information
- The Aston-Thimelby circle at home and abroad
- Blackwell Reference Online (subscription needed)
- Profile of Gertrude Aston Thimelby
