Wynflaed facts for kids

Will of Wynflæd's will, written around 950 AD. This copy was made in the 11th century and is kept at the British Library.

Wynflaed was an important Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who lived around the year 950 AD. She owned a lot of land in different parts of England. These areas included Hampshire, Somerset, Dorset, and Wiltshire.

Some people wonder if she was the same Wynflaed who was the mother of Aelfgifu of Shaftesbury. This Aelfgifu was likely the grandmother of Kings Eadwig and Edgar the Peaceful. However, Wynflaed was a common name back then. Also, while this Wynflaed was rich, she was not as wealthy as royalty. This makes it less likely she was the royal grandmother.

Who Was Wynflaed?

Wynflaed was a powerful woman in Anglo-Saxon England. She lived during the 10th century. This was a time before the Norman Conquest. She was part of the nobility, meaning she came from an important family. We know about her mainly from her will. A will is a legal document. It explains what a person wants to happen to their property after they die. Wynflaed likely died sometime between 950 and 960 AD.

A Powerful Landowner

Wynflaed owned a lot of land. Her estates were spread across several counties. These included places like Faccombe Netherton. Today, this is known as Netherton, Hampshire. She also owned land in Charlton Horethorne. This is a village in Somerset. Owning land meant she had wealth and influence. Land was a very important source of power in those days.

What Her Will Tells Us

Wynflaed's will gives us a peek into her life. It lists not only her land but also her other belongings. These were called "moveable goods." They included things like tents, chests, and cups. She also owned clothing. This shows us what kind of items a wealthy person might have owned. Her will is a valuable historical document. It helps us understand life in Anglo-Saxon England.

Wynflaed's Religious Connections

Wynflaed was a widow. She was also a "vowess." This means she had taken religious vows. She was probably connected to Shaftesbury Abbey. An abbey is a type of monastery or convent. It is a place where monks or nuns live. She also had connections to Wilton Abbey. Both of these were royal abbeys. This means they had special ties to the king or queen. Her connections show her importance in society. They also show her religious devotion.

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  Will of Wynflæd's will, written around 950 AD. This copy was made in the 11th century and is kept at the British Library.