The Green Children of Woolpit

In the 12th century, during the reign of King Stephen, two children with green-tinted skin appeared in the village of Woolpit, Suffolk. They spoke an unknown language and would eat only green beans. Their origin has never been explained.

The Discovery

Villagers found the children near the wolf pits that gave the town its name. They had green skin, wore strange clothing, and spoke no known language. They seemed frightened and confused.

The Children

The boy died soon after being found. The girl survived, gradually lost her green color, and learned English. She said they came from a land called St. Martin’s Land, where everything was green and the sun never shone.

The Explanations

Modern theories suggest the children were lost Flemish immigrants suffering from chlorosis (green sickness) caused by malnutrition. The girl’s description might refer to forests or underground mines.

The Mystery

Contemporary chroniclers Ralph of Coggeshall and William of Newburgh recorded the story independently. The children were real people who appeared mysteriously. Where they actually came from remains unknown.

Assessment

The Green Children of Woolpit may have prosaic explanations, but their story resonates with folklore about fairy changelings and other worlds. Whatever the truth, they remain one of medieval England’s strangest mysteries.