Hilda

Hilda, St., or Hild, daughter of Herreric, nephew of Edwin, King of Northumbria, was born about 614, and was baptised at the age of 14 by Paulinus. During the pagan period that followed, Edwin and she were sent to Paris, but being recalled by Bishop Aidan of Iona she became a nun, and was appointed in 649 Abbess of Hartlepool (Heortea), and ten years later founded the famous convent at Whitby for monks as well as nuns, ruling this mixed community with rare ability and vigour. She died in 680. leaving behind her a saintly reputation, which still clings to her memory.