William Firmatus was an eleventh-century Norman hermit and pilgrim who was born in Tours, in the Kingdom of France. Originally a physician and canon, he decided to renounce his wealth and distribute his belongings to the impoverished. He lived a secluded life with his mother before moving to a hermitage near Laval. He spent his later years traveling as a pilgrim and residing in hermitages at Mantilly and Savigny until his death in 1103.
Life and miracles
During his travels, William was said to have provided water to the residents of Choilley-Dardenay by striking the earth with his staff. He was also known for a unique connection to nature, with stories suggesting that wild animals, such as birds and fish, were unafraid of him. One legend even describes him leading a wild boar away from a farm by its ear.
Veneration and legacy
Following his death, several towns competed for his remains, with Mortain eventually securing them through the efforts of its clergy and citizens. He is honored in the Catholic and Anglican traditions, with his feast day observed on April 24. He is venerated at Savigny and Mantilly, and he is associated with the collegiate church of Mortain.