Edith Swanneshals
A famous beauty her nickname means 'Swan-Neck'
Also referred to as 'Editha or Edeva the Fair'
Mentioned as alive (1086) in the Domesday Book
Born (c1027) - Died (after 1086)
Father - (probably) Thorkell Havi
Mother - (probably) Eadgyth of England (2)
Edith married firstly (c1044) to Harold II of England
NOTE :
Edith is usually referred to as Harold's mistress. It is far more likely given her royal connections that she was actually his wife, and he was created Earl of East Anglia at the time of their marriage. They were perhaps married only in the so-called 'Danish manner' decried by the English church. Her later repudiation caused no problems with the church which regarded her children as illegitimate. In Danish law however, Edith and Harold's children were legitimate. Harold repudiated Edith (1064) in order to make a dynastic marriage with Aldgyth of Mercia, the widow of Gruffyd of Wales. It was Edith who identified Harold's body after the battle of Hastings (1066). Edith owned extensive estates in East Anglia and was a wealthy woman.
Children :