Ælfflæd of Mercia (II) facts for kids
Ælfflæd or Æthelflæd was an important woman in Anglo-Saxon England. We know about her from records written later, around the 1100s. She lived around the year 840.
Historians believe Ælfflæd was the daughter of King Ceolwulf I of Mercia. She was married to Wigmund, who was the son of King Wiglaf. Ælfflæd was also the mother of a famous person named Wigstan.
Contents
The Story of Wigstan
Why Wigstan Didn't Become King
When Wigmund, Ælfflæd's husband, passed away in 840, their son Wigstan was expected to become king. However, Wigstan chose a different path. He preferred a life dedicated to religion instead of ruling.
A Difficult Time for Wigstan
After Wigmund's death, a relative named Beorhtwulf wanted to marry Ælfflæd, who was now a queen without a king. Wigstan did not agree to this marriage. Because of this disagreement, Wigstan sadly lost his life. He was later seen as a saint, much like other royal figures from that time who died in political conflicts.
Ælfflæd's Influence and Family
Her Important Role
Ælfflæd was a very important person in her family. She was considered an heir to her father, King Ceolwulf I, and his brother, Coenwulf. This means she had a high status and likely inherited important things.
Leading a Monastery
By the middle of the 9th century, Ælfflæd was probably the leader, or abbess, of Winchcombe Abbey. This was a significant religious place. Being an abbess meant she had a lot of power and was in charge of the abbey's property.
Her Later Life
Ælfflæd lived until after 850. Some historians believe she might have been the mother of King Ceolwulf II. She may also have been the mother of Eadburh, who married a man named Æthelred Mucel.
See Also
