Matilda (Maud) wife of Henry I

Matilda, who was also known as Maud or Mold but who was actually christened Edith, was the great-great niece of Edward the Confessor. She was born in 1080, the daughter of Malcolm III, King of Scots, and his wife St Margaret (granddaughter of Edmund 'Ironside', the Confessor's half-brother). She was a pious and charitable lady and was also known for her literary and musical interests.

Marriage

Her marriage to Henry I in 1100 united the Saxon and Norman lines. This took place in Westminster Abbey (the Norman church) on 11th November.

Their son William was drowned in the wreck of the White Ship in 1120. Their daughter Matilda (1102-1167) married Heinrich V of Germany, and secondly Geoffrey of Anjou. Her son succeeded as Henry II.

Coronation

She was crowned in the Abbey on the same day as her wedding, both ceremonies being conducted by Archbishop Anselm.

Burial

She died on 1st May 1118 and was buried on the right hand side of the original Shrine of St Edward the Confessor. The present Shrine is in the same location. There is no tombstone or memorial for her.