Events are taking place across Halifax to celebrate the life and legacy of the remarkable Anne Lister.
The annual Anne Lister Memorial Weekend will return from Friday 20 until Sunday 22 September 2024, commemorating the death of Halifax’s famous landowner, entrepreneur, traveller, and lesbian.
Anne was born on 3 April 1791 and died on 22 September 1840. Her relatively short life was eventful and unconventional, and her fascinating diaries of over five million words detail her life and loves.
Her story became world-famous through Sally Wainwright’s BBC/HBO series, Gentleman Jack and her life and legacy continues to inspire people from around the world.
To commemorate the 184th anniversary of her death, and as part of the CultureDale(external link) programme, a series of events are being held around Halifax. The weekend will feature a mix of talks, walks, memorial services, and opportunities for reflection.
The moving formal memorial service will take place, as usual, on the Friday evening (20th) at Halifax Minster. The service, led by Rev. Sam Crook, is an opportunity to remember Anne Lister and to celebrate her legacy.
On Saturday 21 September, the memorial weekend will coincide with the Yorkshire Integration Festival, taking place at the Piece Hall. As part of celebrations, Little Amal, the internationally acclaimed 12-foot puppet of a ten-year old refugee girl, will parade through Halifax with her message of hope and solidarity. People are invited to join the parade, with Anne Lister followers encouraged to wear a top hat, paying homage to Anne’s iconic look.
On the anniversary of Anne’s death (22 September) the traditional flower laying will take place at the sculpture of Anne in the Piece Hall, from 9.30am.
The weekend will culminate with a special Year of Culture Anne Lister’s candlelit concert, taking place on the Sunday evening and featuring a harpist and pianist playing a square piano. The musicians will play music of Anne’s time with references throughout the performance to Anne and her music. More information and booking details can be found at www.ticketsource.co.uk/calderdale-culturedale(external link).
Shibden Hall, Anne’s former home and the location for much of the filming for the series Gentleman Jack, is open throughout the memorial weekend for visitors. Halifax Minster will also be open for quiet reflection and the Anne Lister Hub, located at Northgate House, Halifax, will be open for information and merchandise.
Lots of other events are taking place over the weekend. Full details, as well as information about opening times, can be found at annelisterofhalifax.co.uk(external link) and culturedale.co.uk(external link).
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, Cllr Danielle Durrans, said:
“The Anne Lister Memorial Weekend is an opportunity to come together and celebrate the incredible legacy of an amazing woman.
“Anne’s impact cannot be overstated. As an openly gay woman, she lived her life the way she wanted, defying the rules of her time.
“This fearless attitude continues to inspire people today. The memorial weekend is a special and often emotional time, where we see the impact Anne has had on people’s lives and the outpouring of affection which is felt by many.
“This year’s events are part of CultureDale, an inclusive programme of events and activities from April 2024 to April 2025, that showcase the borough’s talent, creativity, culture and heritage.
“There’s so much going on over the weekend and everyone is welcome. There are both free and paid-for events to inspire and entertain visitors from near and far.”
CultureDale celebrates Calderdale’s 50th anniversary year. The programme features locally-created events, festivals, exhibitions, performances and initiatives for everyone to enjoy up until April 2025. It is funded by Calderdale Council, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Arts Council England, National Lottery Heritage Fund and UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Calderdale reached its 50th anniversary on 1 April 2024. This is the ultimate year for the Vision 2024 for Calderdale. Find out more about it here: www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision
ENDS