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Elizabeth A.Sackler Center for Feminist Art

Eanswith

b. circa 614, Kent, England; d. circa 640, Folkestone, England

In 630, Eanswith (Eanswythe, Eanswide) founded Folkestone Abbey, the first nunnery in England. She was financially and logistically supported in this effort by her father, Eadbald, the king of Kent (ruled 616–640). She remained at the abbey until her death and was later canonized by the Catholic Church.