Hundreds join together to celebrate Anne Lister legacy on 180th anniversary of her death

Tuesday September 22 2020 marked 180 years since the death of Anne Lister of Shibden Hall, Halifax.

The story of the scholar, traveller, lesbian, businesswoman and landowner was told to millions across the world in Sally Wainwright’s BBC and HBO series, Gentleman Jack.

Calderdale Council, Cultural Destinations (a project to increase cultural tourism in Calderdale) and a range of other partner organisations and communities came together to organise a number of events.

A memorial broadcast from Anne’s historic home, Shibden Hall, was live streamed on social media.

Although people were not able to gather for this event in person due to COVID-19 restrictions, they were invited to watch online to commemorate and give thanks for Anne’s life and legacy.

The Mayor of Calderdale, Councillor Dot Foster, placed a wreath outside Shibden Hall before leading a one-minute silence.

Coun Susan Press, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said:v“Anne Lister has become well-known across the globe thanks to the phenomenal success of the Gentleman Jack TV series. Anne’s life and her historic home, Shibden Hall, are a key part of Calderdale’s heritage.

"It’s important to honour this remarkable woman’s life and impact, and we hope that people from the borough and beyond join us online for the events to mark 180 years since her death.”