Awilda

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Awilda as depicted in The Pirates Own Book, published in 1837.
Awilda as depicted in The Pirates Own Book, published in 1837.
The story of Awilda is doubted by some historical scholars and considered to be a legend.

Awilda was the daughter of a 5th century Scandinavian king, who had arranged a marriage for her to Alf, the crown prince of Denmark. However, Awilda obstinately refused her father's choice. She and some of her female friends dressed like sailors and commandeered a ship, taking it into the Baltic as a way of escape.

While sailing, they came across a pirate ship that had recently lost its captain. The girls must have held up valiantly, for four days later, the pirates voted Awilda captain.

The pirates had great success and were eventually noticed by most of Scandinavia. The King of Denmark sent his son and his finest men to battle with the irksome pirates. Prince Alf and his men were able to board their ship and gain the upper hand in the battle. Apparently, Awilda was so impressed with the prince's courage that she stopped the battle, revealed her true identity, and agreed to marry Alf.

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