Kirkeby, Elizabeth (fl. 1482)

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Kirkeby, Elizabeth (fl. 1482)

English goldsmith and merchant. Flourished around 1482 in London; married John Kirkeby, a goldsmith (died 1482).

Elizabeth Kirkeby made a fortune as a London goldsmith. Her family connections are unknown; she was born in London to an artisan family, and married the goldsmith John Kirkeby as a young woman. When he died in 1482, Elizabeth carried on their business and expanded it as well. She created and sold gold pieces, and subsequently used her profits to open a shipping firm and a mercantile shop. She did not remarry, preferring instead to manage her fortunes and business affairs herself. She did hire many assistants, especially to help with her transactions on the Continent, as she preferred to remain in London. She was one of London's wealthiest women when she died.

Laura York , Riverside, California

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