Milburge

This name derives from the Old High German “Mildburg,” composed of two elements: from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) “milde” which in turn derives from the Proto-Germanic “*mildijaz” (mild, soft, tender, gentle, kind, merciful, generous, meek) plus the Old High German “*berganą / *burgz” (to take care, to preserve, to protect, to save, to help, to rescue / fortification, stronghold, fortified city, castle). Saint Mildburh († 715) was the Benedictine abbess of Wenlock Priory. Her feast day is 23 February. Mildburh was a daughter of Merewalh, King of the Mercian sub-kingdom of Magonsaete, and Domne Eafe. She was the older sister of Saint Mildrith and Saint Mildgytha. The three sisters have been likened to the three theological virtues: Milburh to faith, Mildgytha to hope, and Mildrith to charity.