Why do we remember… Grace Darling?

Biography

Grace Darling was born in 1815. Her father was the keeper of Longstone Lighthouse, situated on an island off the coast of Northumberland. One stormy morning in 1838, Grace spotted a ship called the Forfarshire, which had run aground some distance from the shore. Through howling winds and raging seas, Grace and her father risked their lives to row out to the shipwreck to rescue the passengers and crew. They managed to get nine survivors safely back to shore. The newspapers of the time reported on Grace’s bravery and a media frenzy ensued. Grace was besieged with letters, visitors and requests for public appearances. However, she did not enjoy being the focus of so much attention, preferring to live quietly at home with her parents. Sadly, in October 1842 – four years after her brave accomplishment – Grace died from consumption.