Hodierna of St Albans (fl. 1150–1210) was the mother of Alexander Neckam and wet nurse of Richard I of England. Hodierna is also known as Audierne.[1]
According to legend, Richard I and Alexander Neckam were born on the same day.[2] The astrological significance of these two births may be the reason Hodierna was chosen as wet nurse.[1] The boys were breastfed together, although as heir to the throne Richard was given the right breast which was believed to produce richer milk.[1]
Wet nurse to the young princes was an honoured position and Hodierna was given a home in the King's Houses.[1] However, if Richard became ill or died, Hodierna could be blamed.[1] Transitioning into a nanny role as Richard got older, Hodierna was Richard's main source of maternal affection in his early years as his mother was often away.[1]
Richard did not forget Hodierna as he got older. Records show that when he was King, Richard gave Hodierna a generous pension.[3][4]
The village of West Knoyle in Wiltshire was formerly known as Knoyle Hodierne after her.[2]
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