Matilda of Boulogne

Matilda was Countess of Boulogne from 1125 and became Queen of England in 1135 when her husband, Stephen, ascended the throne. She was born in Boulogne, France, to Eustace III and Mary of Scotland. Matilda married Stephen of Blois in 1125, and they jointly ruled Boulogne after her father's abdication.

During the civil war known as the Anarchy, Matilda was a key supporter of her husband. She played an active military role, successfully negotiating the release of Stephen when he was captured. Matilda founded several religious institutions, including Cressing Temple and Temple Cowley, and was a patron of the Knights Templar.

Matilda died of a fever on 3 May 1152 at Hedingham Castle, Essex, and was buried at Faversham Abbey. Her children succeeded her in Boulogne, with Eustace IV, William I, and Marie I ruling in turn.