Born in 1774 in New York, Elizabeth lost her mother at a young age, but found comfort in reading, nature, poetry, music, and horseback riding. Elizabeths beloved husband died after ten years of marriage, leaving her with five small children to support. Soon after, Elizabeth became Catholic, established a girls school in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and founded a new branch of the Sisters of Charity. Elizabeth Ann Seton was the first American-born saint!Feast Day: January 4Patronage: Catholic Schools, Equestrians, Maryland, Seafarers, Students, Teachers, Widows