Eanswith was a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon princess from the Kingdom of Kent. As the daughter of King Eadbald, she chose a religious life over marriage, reportedly refusing a proposal from a pagan prince to remain devoted to her faith. She established the Benedictine Folkestone Priory, which served as one of the earliest monastic communities for women in Britain. She lived and served as an abbess at this site until her death in Folkestone around 640.
Life and devotion
Born into the Kentish royal family, Eanswith was the daughter of King Eadbald and Queen Emma. While her monastery was being built, she declined a marriage offer from a pagan ruler, preferring to live among her companions in monastic service. This community may have been influenced by monks arriving from the Gregorian mission. She remained at the priory throughout her life, dedicating herself to the Benedictine order.
Veneration and remains
Her feast day is observed on 12 September, marking the traditional translation of her relics in 1138. In 1885, human remains were found in a lead reliquary within the north wall of the Folkestone parish church. Recent osteological research suggests these bones belonged to a young woman from the mid-7th century, potentially supporting the historical connection to the saint. She is honored in various traditions, including Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox.