In March we celebrated International Women’s Day, paying homage to the many inspirational women around the world. One such woman is the courageous Grace Horsley Darling, who was honoured with a substantial grave marker to which thousands of tourists flock every year.

Born on 24 November 1815, Grace was the daughter of lighthouse keeper William Darling. As the seventh of nine children, she grew up on Brownsman Island in the Farne Islands, where she assisted her father in maintaining the lighthouse.

Grace gained national fame for her heroic role in the rescue of survivors from the shipwreck Forfarshire in 1838.

On 7 September 1838, Grace spotted the wreckage of the Forfarshire, broken in half against the rocks. Braving the storm, she and her father rowed out to the survivors. While her father helped them into the boat, Grace kept the vessel steady in rough waters. Together, they saved eight people before returning safely to shore.

News of Grace’s rescue spread quickly, making her a national hero and an enduring symbol of courage.

Both Grace and her father were awarded the silver medal for bravery by the Royal National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck. In addition, £700 in subscriptions and donations was raised for Grace, along with several marriage proposals being delivered to her.

Sadly, in 1842, Grace fell ill with tuberculosis and passed away at just 26 years old. She was buried in the churchyard of St Aidan’s Church in Bamburgh. Her grave is beside a monument featuring a sleeping image of Grace holding her oar. The statue was positioned to the north of her grave, at the western edge of the churchyard, ensuring it remained visible to passing seafarers.

Grace’s legacy is preserved through memorials at St Aidan’s Church in Bamburgh, including a grave monument and a stained-glass window. These sites continue to draw visitors, honouring her bravery and place in history.